The South Korean carmaker KGM has entered a new segment for itself, unveiling its all-electric KGM Musso EV pickup, Autocar reports.

Unlike the traditional Musso Rhino, which was created as a work vehicle, the new model is designed for buyers who need a universal all-wheel drive vehicle for everyday commuting, traveling, and active recreation. The Musso EV has become one of the few electric pickups on the market, competing with models such as the Maxus eTerron9 and Isuzu D-Max EV. In the future, the segment will also be replenished with an electric version of the Toyota Hilux.

Unlike the frame Musso Rhino, this electric pickup uses the platform of the KGM Torres EVX crossover. That's why the Musso EV looks less "truck-like": it has a lower ground clearance, a longer wheelbase, and a more streamlined body reminiscent of modern SUVs.

The car is equipped with an 80.6 kWh battery with lithium-iron-phosphate cells. The maximum range is about 380 km. During the first tests, the car showed real efficiency, which enables to expect a range of more than 320 km under normal conditions. Fast charging enables to increase the battery charge from 10 to 80% in about 36 minutes. When using a home charging station with a capacity of 11 kW, the process takes about 10 hours.

The Musso EV has a two-motor all-wheel drive system with a capacity of 234 hp. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 8 seconds. Although its dynamics are not sporty, its power is enough for confident driving in the city and on the highway.

One of the features of this model has become the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) system, which enables to use this car as a mobile source of electricity for small devices, for example, to charge appliances or power equipment during a vacation in nature. The interior of the Musso EV is noticeably different from the more utilitarian Rhino.

The cabin uses soft materials, decorative elements, and a modern digital dashboard. The car has a 12.3-inch central display, as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Compared to its diesel version, this electric pickup offers greater comfort for second-row passengers, as there is more legroom there, and the seatbacks are fixed at a more convenient angle.

However, the Musso EV is inferior to traditional pickups in terms of practicality. Its payload is a maximum of 690 kg, and the ability to tow a trailer is limited to 2,300 kg. For comparison, the diesel Musso Rhino can carry heavier loads and tow up to 3,500 kg. The price of the KGM Musso EV in the UK starts at around 39,995 pounds sterling, which is around 54,000 US dollars.

After taking into account the government subsidy for electric cars, it becomes significantly cheaper than its competitors: the electric Isuzu D-Max EV costs around 60,000 pounds ($81,000), and the Maxus eTerron9 costs around 54,700 pounds ($74,000).

The Musso EV is unlikely to replace the classic work pickups for farmers or construction companies, but it offers an interesting alternative to electric SUVs: all-wheel drive, an open trunk, good range, and lower operating costs. For those looking for a car for traveling and an active lifestyle, this could become one of the most affordable electric pickups of the new generation.