Maxus, a name revived from the historic Leyland DAF Vans by SAIC (Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation), has taken a bold step in the UK market by introducing the country’s first electric pick-up truck, the Maxus T90 EV. This move not only diversifies the electric vehicle (EV) market but also tests the waters for electric commercial vehicles (CVs) in sectors traditionally dominated by internal combustion engine vehicles.
Overview of the Maxus T90 EV
Launch and Adaptation: The Maxus t90ev pickup isn’t a newcomer globally, having been available in various international markets since 2021. However, its recent introduction to the UK required some re-engineering to meet specific local regulations, including a payload capacity of one tonne, ensuring it qualifies under UK commercial vehicle registration rules.
Design and Utility:
While the T90 EV boasts some under-bonnet storage, practicality dictates that items like charging cables might find their homes in less conventional spots, such as the back seats—potentially to the chagrin of second-row passengers.
MAXUS T90EV Price and Market Appeal:
Available through approximately 60 Maxus dealers nationwide, the T90 EV targets a niche segment. For private buyers, the steep price point necessitates a strong commitment to the concept of an electric utility vehicle. However, for business use, the economic benefits from various tax incentives make it an appealing proposition. This includes savings on road tax, benefit-in-kind, and corporation tax, which could offset the initial higher cost compared to traditional diesel counterparts.
Performance and Specification
The T90 is solely rear-wheel drive and offers limited towing capacity and payload compared to more robust ICE-powered trucks like the Toyota Hilux or Ford Ranger. It features a 201bhp permanent-magnet synchronous motor that powers the rear wheels, and it maintains a traditional pick-up build with leaf springs and a solid rear axle.
MAXUS T90EV Interior and Comfort
The interior equipment of the T90 EV is basic, targeting primarily business users who may not prioritize luxury or advanced features. The cabin includes a simple touchscreen infotainment system without sat-nav or DAB radio, faux-leather seats, and a basic plastic steering wheel. Notable utilities include electronic stability control, a reversing camera, and smartphone mirroring—functional yet straightforward.
Ergonomics and Driving Experience:
Despite its utilitarian approach, the T90’s cabin is comfortably laid out with clear instrumentation and an ergonomic setup. Secondary controls, including a rotary gear selector that humorously resembles a microwave dial, are intuitively designed though they might feel a bit cheap.
Performance and Practical Considerations
The T90 EV is not positioned as a speed demon but offers sufficient power for typical use. It accelerates from a standstill adequately, reaching motorway speeds with comparative ease to traditional diesel counterparts, and is capped at a top speed of around 80 mph. This speed is generally sufficient for a commercial vehicle, ensuring safety while maintaining a good pace on highways.
Handling and Driving Experience
Handling is a mixed bag with the T90. It maintains decent control and grip, suitable for a medium-sized truck. The steering feels manageable, though there is some slight drifting at higher speeds, likely due to its off-road-ready tires. The main drawback, however, lies in its ride quality. The rear suspension, seemingly stiffened for increased payload capacity, does not fare well on uneven roads. This results in a ride that can become uncomfortable over rough terrains, jostling passengers significantly.
Utility and Design Features
The truck features minimal under-bonnet storage, suggesting that charging cables and other small items might end up stored in the back seats, potentially inconveniencing passengers. Despite these design quirks, the T90 boasts a payload capacity of one tonne, aligning it with UK commercial vehicle standards and enhancing its appeal to business users.
Economic Considerations for Businesses
For commercial entities, the T90 EV presents several financial incentives. These include savings on road tax, benefit-in-kind, and corporation tax due to its electric nature. Such benefits make it an attractive option for businesses looking to reduce operational costs and benefit from the increasing push towards electrification in commercial fleets.
