Kandi America, the US branch of China-based Kandi Technologies Group, has unveiled the K32, an off-road EV that might look like a pickup but is actually a non-street-legal UTV. This is Kandi’s third model to be available in the US, after the budget-friendly K23 and K27 that were introduced in 2020. From the outside, the Kandi K32 could be mistaken for a compact pickup thanks to the dual-cab design, the high ground clearance, the pronounced fenders, and the large rear bed. In fact, with a length of 214 inches (5,436 mm), it is longer than a Ford Ranger, which probably served as an inspiration for the Chinese vehicle’s grille and headlights.
Despite the rugged looks, the K32 is classified as an Off-Road UTV limiting its use for recreational activities off the beaten track. Its powertrain consists of dual electric motors producing a combined 28 hp which are channeled to all four wheels. This kind of power is good for a 105 km/h top speed, while Kandi didn’t provide any acceleration figures.
The K32 is available in two variants, the base-spec with a 20.7 kWh battery allowing a97 km range, and the long-range with a larger 50 kWh battery offering a 241 km range. According to the official website, a full charge takes 7.5 hours from a 240V/32A port. The curb weight of 1,855 kg sounds quite heavy for such a vehicle, with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 2,430 kg limiting the cargo-carrying capabilities.
Inside there is enough room for up to four
adults. The materials on the dashboard look pretty basic, but the center
console is dominated by a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen, combined with a
digital instrument cluster. Equipment includes two airbags, a rearview camera,
a battery protection system, ABS and EBD.
The base-spec K32 starts from US$ 27,699 in
the US before any state incentives are applied, while the long-range variant
starts from US$ 34,499. Kandi America is offering a three-year or 36k-mile basic
coverage warranty, plus five years or 30k-mile warranty for the lithium-ion
battery. The K32 will be sold through the Powersports dealer network, with the
first deliveries scheduled for early 2022.
