The electric pickup truck market in China is currently experiencing an unprecedented growth spurt, with every automaker scrambling to put a new model on the market. To keep up with the trend, Dongfeng has launched its electric pickup truck based on the diesel-powered Rich 6. The truck is essentially the 3rd generation Nissan Navara and features a double cab body on frame, room for five adults, and a load capacity of 905 kg.
At nearly 5.3 meters long, the Dongfeng Rich 6 EV has bed dimensions of 1,510/1,562/474 mm, providing ample space to fit a Euro pallet, and two of them will fit side by side with the tailgate down. As an electric vehicle, the truck is dressed up with blue accents, which is a common design theme in China.
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Despite the truck’s functional interior made of cheap materials, the digital instrument cluster and center information screen are up-to-date, offering Baidu CarLife and the Chinese equivalent of Apple CarPlay. The Rich 6 EV has two versions available, both with only a single electric motor and rear-wheel drive. The first option comes with a 163 hp motor and a 60 kWh LFP battery, offering a 350 km CLTC rated range. The second option has a 177 hp motor coupled with a 77 kWh LFP battery, providing a 453 km CLTC rated range.
The Dongfeng Rich 6 EV is designed to be a workhorse, with no emphasis on comfort or the latest technology on board. Despite this, the truck should deliver on what is expected from pickup trucks, and the bright yellow color looks impressive. However, closer inspection reveals some concerning details, such as the electric motor bolted directly onto the rear differential with no protection and high voltage cables held by zip ties. What looks like grounding wire is just hanging loosely from the bodywork, giving the impression that the setup was done on a weekend afternoon while enjoying a couple of beers and good chat with friends.
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The truck starts from RMB 269,800 or $39,100, with the bigger battery version starting at RMB 329,800 or $47,800, which is nearly $20,000 more than its diesel sibling. Despite the flaws, the Dongfeng Rich 6 EV is a promising addition to the growing electric pickup truck market in China, offering a practical and affordable option for those in need of a workhorse.
Dongfeng Rich 6 EV photos gallery
