Maxus presents electric pickup eTerron 9

Like so many other manufacturers, Maxus is also taking the opportunity to present a world premiere at the IAA Transportation in Hanover: As the first fully electric pickup with all-wheel drive as standard in Europe, the new Maxus flagship is set to set new standards. The model aims to score points with its spacious platform and high payload and towing capacity.

The eTerron 9 is intended to be the harbinger of a comprehensive model offensive by Maxus in Europe: “Europe plays a central role for Maxus and the SAIC Group. Following the successful start in one of the most demanding regions in the world, we are now going on the offensive. We want to expand our pioneering role in sustainable and emission-free mobility with further new models,” explains Utz Rachner, Country Manager Germany at SAIC Maxus Europe. “Our new eTerron 9 pickup, which we are presenting to the global public for the first time here in Hanover, is a first foretaste of this.”

The pickup has two electric motors on board: the two permanent magnet synchronous motors deliver 125 kW at the front and 200 kW at the rear axle, resulting in a total output of 325 kW. The energy 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 corresponding fast-charging stations. 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. According to Maxus, this minimises the space required and increases capacity and safety.

Another new feature is the 9-channel ventilation system, which contributes to the optimum battery temperature and guarantees maximum performance in all conditions. Together with efficient energy recovery, the heat management system improves the range in winter by 10 per cent compared to conventional electric cars. The standard range of the eTerron 9 is up to 430 kilometres per battery charge (WLTP combined).

Using ‘Vehicle to Load’ (V2L), the vehicle can also be transformed into a rolling ‘power bank’ on request: the energy stored in the battery supplies external devices with power. In addition to several 2.2 kW sockets in the ‘frunk’ and on the charging area, there is also an external 6.6 kW connection, which can be used, for example, to connect tools from tradesmen or e-bikes and cool boxes on camping holidays.

The 5.50-metre-long model offers a maximum payload of 620 kilograms. If longer items 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 2.40 metres long – ideal for a surfboard as well as building and gardening supplies.

There is also a 236-litre frunk under the bonnet, in which luggage can be transported weatherproof. It also offers two seats for a break or BBQ when camping. The vehicle also offers a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tonnes – a record for all-electric pickups in this class, according to Maxus.

The sales launch for the eTerron 9 is planned for the 4th quarter of 2024. Further information on the vehicle, including prices and details on the market launch in the individual markets, will be announced at that time.

Electric pickups are still a rarity in Europe. Last year, Ford brought its F-150 Lightning electric pickup to Europe. Next year, Japanese manufacturer Isuzu plans to follow suit with the D-MAX BEV.

parkers.co.uk, maxusmotors-presse.de (in German)