KGM, formerly known as SsangYong, is set to introduce the Musso EV, Korea’s first electric pickup, using an existing platform to minimize costs. Despite potential range limitations due to weight and design, KGM aims to compete against established brands like Ford and newcomers from Kia and Hyundai. The Musso EV’s unibody construction raises concerns about its load-bearing capacity, but its early launch in 2024 may give KGM a competitive edge in the emerging electric pickup market.
KGM: The New Dawn of Electric Pickups
While the name KGM might not ring a bell, it signifies a fresh chapter for a manufacturer previously recognized in Europe for its unconventional vehicle designs. This brand is none other than SsangYong, which faced bankruptcy in 2020. Now, reborn as KGM, the company is brimming with aspirations, including the ambitious development of an electric pickup that could mark Korea’s entry into this growing market.
Utilizing Existing Platforms for Innovation
KGM’s aspirations are high, but creating a platform specifically for one model can be a costly venture that many manufacturers typically shy away from. For its upcoming Musso EV electric pickup, KGM appears to be leveraging the platform already in use by the Actyon and Torres, as reported by InsideEVs.
Details from KGM are scarce, leaving some uncertainty around the specifications of the battery that will power the Musso EV. Speculation suggests that the vehicle might utilize a 73.2 kWh battery similar to that in the Torres, which offers a range of 462 km according to the WLTP cycle. However, it’s essential to note that if KGM opts for this battery, the Musso’s range could be significantly lower due to the added weight of a second motor for all-wheel drive—an essential feature for any pickup—along with increased wind resistance. A realistic estimate could see the Musso struggling to exceed 300 km of WLTP range.
In contrast, the Ford F-150 Lightning, which boasts a WLTP range of 429 km, employs a larger 98 kWh battery.
Functionality vs. Trendiness in the Pickup Market
Pickups are typically celebrated for their practicality, supporting professionals and outdoor enthusiasts alike with their hauling capabilities. They are well-suited for transporting construction materials, machinery, or recreational vehicles like motorcycles and ATVs, necessitating a considerable loading capacity.
However, the KGM Musso EV’s foundation on an SUV-derived platform raises questions about its load-bearing capabilities compared to competitors like the Ford F-150 Lightning (907 kg), Dodge Ram 1500 REV (1.22 tons), or Tesla Cybertruck (1,000 kg).
Further casting doubt on its utility is the choice of a unibody construction for this pickup, rather than the traditional ladder chassis that is often preferred for off-road vehicles and pickups. For example, the Mercedes G-Class 580 e excels off-road precisely because it employs a ladder chassis.
KGM’s Competitive Edge in the Electric Pickup Arena
Kia and Hyundai, the two leading Korean automotive brands, are also venturing into the electric pickup market. Kia has plans to launch the Tasman in the latter half of 2025, while Hyundai remains tight-lipped about its electric pickup, with a potential release not expected until 2026.
This positions KGM to potentially be the first Korean manufacturer to unveil an electric pickup when it launches the Musso EV in the first quarter of 2024. While this milestone may seem minor given the existing electric pickups available, it could stir competition with Kia and Hyundai. However, the extended development timelines for Kia and Hyundai may lead to more robust offerings better tailored for professional use.