SsangYong will be bringing an electric pickup to market after the Korean manufacturer confirmed that a double-cab model is scheduled for mass production in the second half of 2024.
KG Mobility (SsangYong’s new global brand name, which will be shortened to KGM in the UK) previewed the new model with its O100 concept. Smaller than a Ford Ranger or Toyota Hilux — and SsangYong’s own Musso pickup — the O100 is based on the same monocoque chassis as the firm’s forthcoming Torres mid-size electric SUV.
That’s likely to mean the electric pickup won’t be as rugged as its ladder-frame-based SsangYong Musso sibling, but many pickup owners don’t venture far off-road. In other countries, particularly the US, there’s a growing trend for more lifestyle-friendly pickups, such as the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz. Toyota and Volkswagen are also expected to join the more compact pickup party.
SsangYong has released few details about the pickup, although we know that BYD will provide the battery technology. The Chinese giant has partnered with KG Mobility and will produce battery packs in Korea for the new pickup and Torres EVX.
SsangYong, rescued from bankruptcy by KG Mobility, will use the partnership with BYD to rapidly develop electric vehicles, which it says is a pivotal element in the company’s next-generation growth strategy as it aims to secure its continued and sustainable growth.
The two firms have already worked together, with researchers from both companies beginning the joint development of the next-generation hybrid system for a 2025 model based on the Torres. The duo also plan to develop plug-in hybrids, with a recent restructuring of its research institute bolstering electric vehicle development capabilities.
“We anticipate that this expanded cooperation with BYD will strengthen our electric vehicle lineup, including the Torres EVX, KR10, and F100, while reorganising our product range to focus on eco-friendly vehicles,” explained KG Mobility chairman Kwak Jae-sun. “This includes introducing a dedicated electric vehicle platform and launching hybrid products.”
Jae-sun also suggested that a class-leading warranty will back future EVs from the manufacturer, saying, “KG Mobility’s development direction is evident in the recently released Torres EVX. We received an excellent response from domestic electric vehicle consumers by offering a 10-year, 1 million km battery warranty, the highest in the world.”
