Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Geely is gearing up to introduce a four-wheel-drive (4WD) variant of its Radar RD6 electric truck, aiming to rival Tesla’s Cybertruck in performance and capabilities, according to statements from the brand’s CEO.
The RD6, part of Geely’s Radar brand launched in 2022, is positioned as “China’s first pure electric outdoors lifestyle vehicle brand.” Designed with input from renowned British auto designer Peter Horbury, the electric truck is based on Geely’s SEA platform, shared with other models like the Polestar 4, Volvo EM90, and ZEEKR vehicles.
See also: Radar Auto Sets Sights on Global Markets with RD6 EV Pickup Export
Offered with multiple battery options, including 63 kWh, 86 kWh, or 100 kWh, the RD6 boasts an impressive range of up to 392 miles (632 kilometers) under CLTC conditions.
The highly anticipated 4WD model of the RD6 is slated for launch in the second quarter of this year, as confirmed by Radar CEO Ling Shiquan. While specific details are yet to be disclosed, Ling asserts that the Chinese electric truck will deliver acceleration comparable to Tesla’s Cybertruck while carrying substantial loads.
Moreover, the 4WD RD6 is expected to offer a higher wading depth than General Motors’ Hummer EV, a notable feature highlighted by Ling.
See also: Radar Auto RD6 specifications : Everything You should know
In a bid to compete with Tesla’s Cybertruck, which has demonstrated impressive performance in various races, the RD6 aims to offer significant enhancements in payload capacity and towing capabilities. With a payload capacity of up to 1,900 lbs (865 kg) and a towing capacity of 3 tons, the 4WD RD6 represents a notable upgrade over its 2WD counterpart.
One notable feature of the upcoming model is its ability to directly charge other EVs, adding to its appeal in the increasingly competitive electric vehicle market.
Radar’s RD6 electric truck captured a significant share of the Chinese electric truck market last year, amounting to 61.5%, and the company has begun exporting the vehicle to overseas markets as part of its expansion strategy.
