SsangYong, just like the rest of the carmakers out there, has to develop
greener powertrains. The Koreans appear to be looking at an electric version of
the next generation Korando. Expected to show up in 2020, according to Autocar,
it will probably draw inspiration from the e-SIV Concept that debuted this
year.
The study has a futuristic shape, is slightly larger
than the current Korando and uses a 190 PS electric motor
that’s powered by a 61.5 kWh battery. The company estimates it has a total
driving range of 320-450 km, depending on the conditions.
Speaking to the British publication, SsangYong UK
chief, Nick Laird, said that the electric Korando will be “a huge step forward,
even over the current model”. He added that “it sticks to the company’s roots
and DNA of trying to be a proper SUV and crossover brand”, and will be a
“proper 4×4” and “off-road capable”.
SsangYong appears to be interested in a
diesel-electric derivative of the SUV, too, which combines the best of both
worlds, in theory at least: improved fuel consumption, lower CO2 emissions,
good amount of torque and improved driving range.
Laird admitted that the technology is currently in
development, but consumers will have the final word about it. “I do hope that
the diesel market recovers. I think it deserves to.” The automaker is also
working on two other vehicles based on the same underpinnings as the Tivoli.
Moreover, it appears that another SUV based on the Rexton is being planned,
too, according to Laird, who wasn’t keen on discussing these products.
