Geely Radar electric ute firms for Australia

CHINESE manufacturer Geely has taken to LinkedIn to announce that its Radar electric ute is on its way Down Under.

“Exciting news!” says Geely’s LinkedIn post. “Get ready for the release of an RHD electric pick-up truck, available in your market soon.”

GoAuto understands that Geely has commenced right-hand drive production of its ‘Radar’ RD6 utility, with arrival in local dealerships expected from the second half of this year (2024).

Further, it is understood the importer will adopt the Riddara nameplate for the Australian market, owing to a trademark conflict with the Radar title.

According to the marque’s global website, the Riddara ute will measure up at 5260mm in length, 1900mm in width, and 1865mm in height, giving it similar proportions to the top-selling Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux.

The RD6 rides on a 3120mm wheelbase and is offered with 63kWh and 86kWh battery packs, depending on market. Range claims are listed at 385km and 517km respectively. Charging times are listed at 30-32 minutes (30 to 80 per cent) on a DC fast charger or up to 11 hours on an AC ‘slow’ charger.

Both battery packs supply a 200kW and 384Nm rear electric motor to deliver a 0-100km/h time of 7.3 seconds, while dual-motor, all-wheel drive version up towing capacity to 3000kg (braked) and delivers 315kW of power, slashing the 0-100km/h to just 4.5 seconds.

Riding on strut front and multi-link rear suspension – courtesy of Geely’s Multiplex Attached Platform (MPA) – the Riddara RD6 features a 1525mm long by 1425mm wide tray bed. It offers a braked towing capacity of 2500kg and payload of 755kg. Braking is all disc.

Approach and departure angles are listed at 22.0- and 25.0 degrees respectively with ground clearance of 220mm. Water wading depth is listed at 815mm.

In understanding the differentiation between the locally sold Radar and export Riddara models, the Geely website states as follows:

“Radar New Energy Automobile, affiliated to Geely Holding, is a mid- to high-end intelligent EV enterprise focusing on the outdoor ecosystem.

“Riddara is an international pick-up truck brand owned by Radar Auto.

“Geely Holding, founded in 1986, is now managing several leading brands, including Geely Auto, Lotus, Lynk & Co, Volvo, Zeekr.

“Leveraging the advantageous resources and industrial capabilities of Geely Holding, Riddara focuses on the pick-up truck segment and seeks differentiated development and strength complementarity with other Geely brands.

“Riddara has been engaging in product design and R&D with a global vision, focusing on creating outdoor intelligent connected experiences that surpass expectations.”

Further detail from Geely is expected to be announced within weeks, detailing pricing and specification of the Riddara RD6 prior to the model’s local launch. Visit GoAuto again soon for further details.