Despite its current financial woes, SsangYong Motor Company is also joining the global campaign for sustainable mobility. The self-proclaimed ‘Korean SUV specialist’ has unleashed the electric version of its Korando crossover for mass production.
SsangYong previously released teaser images of its first electric vehicle
Called the Korando e-Motion, SsangYong’s maiden electric vehicle (EV) offering. It also the first new vehicle announced following the company’s bankruptcy filing in December 2020.
Judging by the official images released by SsangYong, the Korando e-Motion’s design doesn’t deviate too much from that used on the current gasoline and diesel versions. One noticeable difference – apart from blue accents on the body and 17-inch alloy wheels - is a slightly reworked fascia that gives a more flowing appearance.
The new model largely retains the design and platform of its combustion-engined siblings
Interior details and technical information have yet to be disclosed, although SsangYong previously confirmed that the Korando e-Motion will have 187 hp on tap, thanks to a 140kW front electric motor powered by a 61.5kWh lithium-ion battery. That’s 26 hp more than the 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine on the current range-topping variant.
Korean testing conditions have reportedly yielded a maximum driving range of 306 km. It’s unclear if the modified design and powertrain will affect the Korando’s 5-star crash safety rating.
A global shortage of semiconductors needed for automotive use has pushed back the Korando e-Motion’s rollout to August, with European markets a priority. SsangYong is waiting for chip supplies to normalize before announcing a domestic release.
SsangYong already has a follow-up EV model in the works
Meanwhile, the Korean carmaker already has a second electric SUV in the works, condenamed the J100. Existing as a design sketch for now, the model sports a more rugged appearance, complete with generous body cladding, bash plates, and rear-mounted spare tire. SsangYong is reportedly fielding the J100 against the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Skoda Enyaq, with a planned 2022 release.
The company says its current EV efforts are aimed at boosting its stock, with a self-rescue plan to make it more attractive to investors as part of its rehabilitation and restructuring. Almost 76 percent of its shares are held by India’s Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., which acquired SsangYong in November 2010.
Catch more industry updates at Philkotse.com.