LDV powers into the future

Chinese brand LDV will be the first manufacturer to offer an electric ute in Australia when the eT60 goes on sale in November.

It is one of three fully electric vehicles that the company is bringing to market, including an electric van and people mover.

It’s a big step for a brand that cut its teeth on cheapo alternatives to the mainstream.

eT60 brings the highly specified, value-focused ute into the EV arena and will be offered initially in 4×2 double cab guise.

It’s powered by an 88.5kWh lithium-ion battery pack, with a claimed range of 330km (WLTP).

That range is likely to fall significantly, the more weight you put in the back, and it can tow 1500kg.

eT60 won’t be cheap either with a price likely to be knocking on the door of $80K.

A single 130kW/310Nm electric motor provides drive to the rear wheels.

Pricing and full details of the market first model are are still to be revealed, even though it is already on sale across the ditch in New Zealand

Charging using a a standard powerpoint could take as much as 40 hours, while a 7.4kW professionally installed home wall box will take about 13 hours.

With a fast DC commercial charger, will deliver a charge from 20 to 80 per cent in approximately 45 minutes.

The trio of fully electric vehicles is a decisive step for the company and will see LDV leapfrog the hybrid models of other manufacturers.

“The Australian auto industry is at a crucial pivot point and embarking on a journey many countries commenced years ago,” LDV’s Dinesh Chinnappa said.

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“We have moved from challenger brand to innovator brand. With 92 dealers across the country it’s important we continue to lay the key building blocks for the brand’s future.”

Also coming in November are the LDV eDeliver 9 large van based on the same powertrain with 150kW/310Nm and range of 280km (WLTP).

Mifa is the first model built on a dedicated electric platform with a slightly larger 90kWh battery, 180kW/350Nm and range of 440km (WLTP).