Over the next few years, the Maxus brand, which is part of China’s SAIC Group, will launch numerous new products on the European market. The start of this comprehensive model offensive is the new Maxus eTerron 9, the first fully-electric pick-up with standard all-wheel drive in Europe.
Making its world premiere at this year’s IAA Transportation in Hanover, Germany, the Maxus eTerron 9 is powered by two electric motors – 125 kW/170 hp at the front and 200 kW/272 hp at the rear axle, resulting in an impressive system output of 325 kW/442 hp.
The so-called All-Terrain System (ATS) comprises six preset driving modes, ranging from ‘Normal’ to ‘Mud’ and ‘Sand’. In addition, Maxus says customers can individually configure a user-defined mode to adapt the steering, engine power and the response of the stability control, as well as the energy recovery and the height of the standard air suspension, to their personal preferences. More than 400 different combinations are claimed to be possible.
The energy required for the electric drive is supplied by a 102 kWh high-voltage battery, which can be charged from 20 to 80 per cent in around 40 minutes with up to 115 kW at fast-charging stations, according to Maxus.
The lithium iron phosphate battery was designed according to the specially developed Tetris construction method in a nine-cell protective frame, which distributes the forces horizontally and vertically – just like in Tetris. Maxus says this minimises space requirements and increases capacity and safety.
Another new feature is the nine-channel ventilation system, which contributes to optimum battery temperature and guarantees maximum performance under all conditions. Together with efficient energy recovery, Maxus claims thermal management improves the range in winter by 18 per cent compared to conventional electric cars. The standard range of the eTerron 9 is up to 430 kilometres per battery charge (WLTP combined).
The vehicle also has a vehicle to load (V2L) function, meaning energy stored in the battery supplies external devices with power. In addition to several 2.2 kW sockets in the 236-litre ‘frunk’ and on the pick-up bed, there is also an external 6.6 kW connection, which can be used, for example, to connect power tools.
At 5.50 metres long, the new Maxus eTerron 9 offers a maximum payload of 620 kilograms. If longer objects need to be transported, the rear wall of the driver’s cab can be lowered at the touch of a button. This creates a loading area up to 2.4-metres. Towing capacity is up to 3.5 tons.
Inside, the eTerron 9 features soft leather and has an eight-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat with ventilation and a massage function. There are 20 storage compartments throughout the vehicle, while the two front seats can also be put down to create an almost flat sleeping area 170 cm long. The bonnet and tailgate can be opened electronically.
There is multi-link rear suspension with air suspension, which adjusts the vehicle level depending on the speed. Vehicle height can be adjusted using the air suspension. This has an effect on air resistance and therefore on range. In ‘Easy Load’ mode, the loading area can be lowered by 60mm, which makes loading and unloading easier.
Maxus says safety is ensured by the high proportion (73%) of ultra-high-strength steel, which is also used in the A, B and C-pillars. Maxus expects a five-star Euro NCAP score.
An Irish launch date, along with pricing, will be announced at a later date by the Harris Group.
