KGM may roll out its electric Musso ute to RHD markets

The KGM Musso EV electric pick-up has moved closer to being potentially availability here. Right-hand drive production for the UK market is now confirmed, with early road tests suggesting promise as a lifestyle-focused alternative to traditional work utes.

UK automotive journalists are calling it “the most convincing electric pick-up to date”, despite its payload limitations.

Underpinning the Musso EV is the same platform as KGM’s Torres EVX SUV uses. That is why KGM is calling it a “mid-size pick-up for urban drivers.”

Lifestyle focus over heavy-duty capability

Auto Express said that the Musso pick-up transforms into “a quiet, comfortable and relatively sprightly truck”. But that’s only after annoying driver assistance features are disabled. The dual electric motors deliver 339Nm of torque, and the sprint to 100km/h evidently takes eight seconds.

Because it uses an SUV-based platform, the payload is limited to 690kg, substantially below that of traditional utes with their one tonne payloads. Braked towing capacity is rated at 1800kg.

Payload aside, Auto Express said that otherwise the KGM Musso EV is the most convincing electric pick-up to date.

The SUV-like ride comfort is the payoff thanks to multi-link rear suspension rather than the leaf springs.

The closest competitor would be the Geely Riddara RD6, which has a smaller battery and range but can tote 1030kg and tow 3000kg.

Car-based utes are becoming increasingly popular overseas, with models like the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz selling well in the US market.

The specs

The Musso EV uses an 81kWh LFP battery pack from BYD, delivering WLTP range between 376km for all-wheel drive variants and up to 465km for front-wheel drive models.

The ute can handle DC charging rates of up to 120kW, a 10–80 per cent top up taking a bit over half an hour. The vehicle also has vehicle-to-load capability for powering external devices.

Interior equipment comprises twin 12.3-inch displays, heated and ventilated leather-clad seats, dual-zone climate control and advanced driver assistance features.

Could it work here?

Select Car Leasing editor, Neil Goodwin, describes the Musso EV as targeting people “who love the look of a pick-up but have zero need to haul bags of cement to the work site.”

KGM is testing the waters in the UK. But the fact it has developed a right-hand drive variant suggests other relevant markets are also being considered.

The vehicle’s focus on lifestyle applications could appeal to New Zealand buyers seeking electric ute creds with SUV refinement.