The deluge of electric pickups continues
as Nikola has previewed their all-new Badger. Set to be unveiled at Nikola
World 2020 in September, the Badger is an aggressively styled pickup which
features a rugged front bumper with an integrated LED light bar. The model also
has a unique grille and daytime running lights which recall those used on the
GMC Sierra.
Moving further back, we can see a bulging
hood and plastic fender flares. Designers also added curvaceous bodywork, flush
door handles and angular accents on the rear doors. Other notable highlights
illuminated side skirts, a contrasting upper body and a distinctive tailgate
with a large Nikola logo.
In terms of size, the truck will measure 5900 mm long, 2160 mm wide and 1850 mm)tall. This makes the model slightly longer and wider than the Chevrolet
Silverado 1500 with the 5’ 8” box, but quite a bit shorter in terms of height.
Moving into the cabin, drivers will sit behind a distinctive steering wheel and
find themselves looking at a digital instrument cluster. A massive infotainment
system resides to the right and it’s positioned above a minimalist center
stack. Elsewhere, there’s a ‘floating’ center console and metallic accents.
Nikola didn’t release detailed
specifications, but confirmed there will be fuel-cell and battery electric
versions. The EV variant will have a 160 kWh lithium-ion battery pack which
gives the model a range of approximately 483 km.
The fuel cell variant will have a range of 966 km. This impressive range is due to the
fact that the FCV will also have an electric powertrain. Users will be able
switch between the modes at the touch of a button and this could come in handy
as America’s hydrogen refueling infrastructure is seriously lacking. According
to Nikola, the truck will have a peak output of 906 hp but a
continuous output of 455 hp. The model is also slated to have 1,329 Nm of torque.
Other highlights include a towing capacity
of over 3,629 kg and a 15-kilowatt power outlet which can be used
for tools, lights and compressors. Nikola says the latter provides “enough
power to assist a construction site for approximately 12 hours without a
generator.” The Badger will be built in conjunction with an unnamed company and
use their “certified parts and manufacturing facilities.” Unfortunately,
there’s no word on pricing on when the truck will arrive.
