EV start-up Canoo reveals Tesla Cybertruck rival

LOS Angeles-based EV start-up Canoo has developed its own zero-emissions rival for the Tesla Cybertruck, in the form of a multi-purpose utility vehicle so far being referred to simply as ‘the pickup’.

Like other EVs, the Canoo pickup features an exterior design unlike any internal-combustion pick-up with a cab-forward design similar to some light-duty trucks and a front fascia dominated by a closed-off grille bulge and simple front bumper.

A large, sloping front windshield ensures plentiful amounts of light are let into the cabin, with the driver set behind the front axle despite the cab-forward design.

The two-seat king-cab arrangement moves into a tub-style rear end with rounded edges, giving the entire vehicle an overall impression of boxiness, like an LCV, but with softer, rounded edges like an EV.

Lighting comes from T-shaped head- and tail-light signatures, with few other notable design features apart from its underbody cladding, black wheels and 265/60 all-terrain rubber.

However despite its nondescript exterior design, the pickup offers a number of nifty features including a two-foot pull-out bed extension – increasing bed length from six to eight feet – which can reach as far as the barn door-style tailgate, which itself can be extended to enclose the cargo when the pull-out bed is in use.

The aforementioned grille bulge is actually a fold-down work table, behind which sits extra cabin storage space. Additional storage space, as well as an integrated step, is also found in a panel sitting in front of the rear wheels.

Both sides of the rear tub can also be folded down to create side tables, while the bed features a modular design that can be split up with the use of dividers.

A four-output charging port, integrated lighting and a roof rack complete the functional amenities.

Alternatively, a canopy-style camper shell can be fitted over the top of the load bed, which can be specced with features such as a rooftop tent and rear full-size spare tyre.

Measuring 4677mm long, 1980mm wide and 1920mm tall with a 2850mm wheelbase, the Canoo is roughly the same size as other dual-cab 4x4 pick-ups, with its EV construction allowing for particularly short overhangs both front and rear.

The cabin features a minimalist design with plenty of natural light, a square steering wheel and a deep-set infotainment and instrument cluster display.

As for the powertrain, no specifics have been released by the brand however it is promising rear-or all-wheel drive with single or dual-motor set-ups, an output of up to 600hp (447kW) and 745Nm, and a driving range of 320km or more.

Canoo executive chairman Tony Aquila said the pickup was designed to be as functional as possible.

“Our pickup truck is as strong as the toughest trucks out there and is designed to be exponentially more productive,” he said.

“This truck works for you. We made accessories for people who use trucks – on the job, weekends, adventure. You name it, we did it because it’s your platform and she’s bad to the bone.”

Pre-orders for the production version will open in North America in the second quarter, with deliveries expected to commence by 2023.

Hyundai Motor Group announced last year it would partner with Canoo to develop future Hyundai and Kia EV brand’s using the latter’s proprietary skateboard platform design.