Forget the Tesla Cybertruck, Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T, the LDV GST is set to be Australia’s first all-electric SUV – Automotive News
If at first you don’t succeed, try again with more force and a tougher look.
That’s the strategy of Chinese brand LDV, which has announced it will launch its second all-electric vehicle into the Australian market in 2024. The new powerful pickup, officially known as the GST Pick Up in China, was unveiled at the 2023 Shanghai Motor Show. It showcased a bigger, bolder look The dual-motor transmission system distinguishes it from the current eT60.
LDV Australia, part of the Ateco group, has sold just 60 eT60 examples so far to mostly commercial and fleet operators, where the lack of all-wheel drive, power and capability has kept private buyers away.
The GST, which will get a new name in Australia for obvious reasons, sits on a new platform compared to the eT60, but not much has been confirmed about the new addition to the LDV lineup.
The concept is powered by quad motors and a semi-solid battery, which allowed the company to claim 1,000 hp (745 kW) and a driving range of up to 1,000 km. The production version is unlikely to boast such impressive numbers, but it is expected to have at least two twin motors – one on each axle – to provide the all-wheel drive capability missing in the eT60.
According to a leak from the Chinese Patent Office, the new pickup is 5,680 mm long, 1,809 mm high and at least 1,900 mm high, making it longer and wider than the Ford Ranger.
The GST concept features an exciting and futuristic interior, with a single huge horizontal screen, a flat-bottomed steering wheel with a hatch and a four-seater layout. These are unlikely to carry over to the production version, which will likely have a more practical five-seat cabin and less gimmicky tech than the concept.
An internal combustion engine version, most likely a diesel, is also said to be in development but an Australian release has not been confirmed.
LDV also revealed that an improved version of the T60 ute has been launched in China, and Ateco is working on bringing it to Australia. It features an updated cabin and a new variant with independent rear suspension, which the local operation said was a priority.
More timing, price and detailed specifications about the new LDV GST Pick Up will not be revealed until closer to its launch in 2024.
