The KGM Musso EV is making waves as one of the most practical electric pickup trucks currently available, particularly due to its aggressive pricing. While it doesn’t lead in payload capacity, the Musso EV delivers a comfortable ride, decent range, and a well-equipped interior – all for a starting price significantly lower than rivals like the Maxus eTerron 9 and Isuzu D-Max BEV. This could position KGM as a serious contender in a market slowly adopting electric work trucks.
Electric Pickup Market: Slow Growth, Rising Interest
The transition to electric power in the pickup segment has been gradual, but the availability of models is expanding. British buyers now have options beyond traditional diesel, including the Maxus eTerron 9, Toyota Hilux BEV, and the newly-launched KGM Musso EV. This shift is driven by emissions regulations, Benefit-in-Kind tax advantages for company vehicle users, and increasing demand for sustainable transport solutions.
The Musso EV stands out because it’s not simply an electrified version of an existing diesel truck. It’s a purpose-built EV with a unique design that sets it apart from the growing number of Chinese-made pickups entering the European market.
Range, Charging, and Running Costs: A Strong Package
The Musso EV is powered by an 80.6kWh battery from BYD, offering a claimed range of up to 249 miles on a single charge. Real-world testing suggests a reliable 200+ mile range is achievable, especially with regenerative braking utilized in urban driving. This puts it ahead of the Isuzu D-Max EV (163 miles) and Toyota Hilux BEV (143 miles), though slightly behind the Maxus eTerron 9 (267 miles).
The Musso EV supports rapid charging at up to 300kW, allowing an 80% charge in just over half an hour. Using a 7.4kW home wallbox takes approximately 13 hours for a full recharge. Its zero emissions also qualify it for a £2,500 plug-in van grant, further lowering the total cost of ownership.
Payload and Towing: Trade-Offs for Comfort
The Musso EV has a payload capacity of just 690kg, which falls short of most conventional pickups and even some electric competitors. This limitation means it won’t qualify as a commercial vehicle in some cases. Towing capacity is rated at 2,300kg, less than the Maxus eTerron 9 (3,500kg) or Isuzu D-Max BEV (3,500kg).
The reason for this lower capacity is the Musso EV’s multi-link rear suspension, chosen to prioritize ride comfort over raw hauling power. While it doesn’t match the workhorse capability of other trucks, this trade-off results in a smoother, more refined driving experience.
Interior and Technology: Well-Equipped, But Not Perfect
The Musso EV’s cabin is surprisingly well-appointed for its price point, with leather seats, dual-zone climate control, and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality. However, the infotainment system is clunky and lacks the polish of more established brands. The overzealous driver assistance systems – particularly the lane-keeping assist – can be intrusive and require manual disabling.
Despite these quirks, the Musso EV comes standard with a generous kit list, including heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay compatibility.
Reliability and Warranty: A Solid Promise
KGM offers a seven-year/90,000-mile manufacturer’s warranty, exceeding the standard coverage from Toyota and Maxus. The battery is covered for 10 years or 621,000 miles, matching the Toyota Hilux BEV and outperforming the Maxus eTerron 9. This long-term warranty provides peace of mind for potential buyers.
Final Verdict: Value for Money in an Emerging Market
The KGM Musso EV is a compelling option in the growing electric pickup market. Its lower price point, combined with a comfortable ride, respectable range, and generous warranty, make it an attractive alternative to more expensive rivals. While its payload and towing capacities are limited, the Musso EV excels as a versatile work truck for those who prioritize value and practicality over maximum hauling capability.
The Musso EV proves that electric pickups don’t have to be prohibitively expensive, and KGM’s entry into the segment could accelerate broader adoption of EV work trucks.
