The Chinese electric vehicle invasion of Europe continues with the introduction of the MAXUS eTerron 9, a groundbreaking electric pickup truck. This latest addition to the MAXUS lineup, a brand under the SAIC umbrella, aims to make a significant impact in the European market.
The eTerron 9 boasts a distinctive design that sets it apart from traditional pickup trucks. Its "New Electrified Mecha" aesthetic features a fully enclosed grille flanked by vertical headlights with C-shaped daytime running lights. A powered frunk provides additional storage space, adding to the vehicle's versatility.
The truck's exterior is further enhanced by its edgy bodywork, plastic cladding, a power tailgate, and an innovative midgate. The midgate, similar to the one found on the Chevrolet Avalanche, allows the bed to extend into the cabin, increasing the truck's load-carrying capacity to a maximum of 2,400 mm. With its impressive dimensions, the eTerron 9 surpasses both the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux in length.
While the exterior may be more conventional, the interior of the eTerron 9 offers a surprisingly luxurious and modern experience. The cabin features two-tone leather upholstery, freestanding displays, metallic accents, a floating center console, and a two-spoke steering wheel.
Practicality is also a key feature of the eTerron 9. The truck offers ample storage space with 20 compartments and an eight-way power driver's seat with ventilation and massage functions. For added comfort, the front seats can be folded down to create a nearly flat sleeping surface.
Powering the eTerron 9 is a 102 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, which provides a WLTP range of 430 km. When the battery level drops, a 115 kW DC fast charger can recharge it from 20% to 80% in approximately 40 minutes. Additionally, the truck's Vehicle to Load function allows the battery to power external devices.
For those seeking powerful performance, the eTerron 9 delivers with its dual motor all-wheel drive system. Producing a combined output of 436 horsepower, this system enables the truck to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.8 seconds.
The eTerron 9's semi-monocoque construction combines the advantages of both unibody and body-on-frame designs. This construction allows the truck to offer a towing capacity of up to 3,500 kg and a maximum payload of 620 kg.
To enhance off-road capabilities, the eTerron 9 features height-adjustable air suspension and a variety of driving modes, including Normal, Sand, Mud, and Custom.
With its impressive combination of performance, practicality, and range, the MAXUS eTerron 9 is poised to make a significant impact in the European electric pickup truck market. European sales are expected to begin in the fourth quarter of the year, and more details about the truck are anticipated to be released in the coming months.