In almost complete silence, Geely’s Riddara subbrand will become the first to offer an all-electric double-cab bakkie in the South African market with the introduction of the RD6.
Image: Enviro Automotive
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Enviro Automotive has announced that it will be bringing the Riddara RD6 4×4 Double Cab into South Africa, which will become the first fully electric 4×4 bakkie in the country. Built by the Geely Auto Group on a Volvo-derived platform, the Riddara RD6 will make history in South Africa, becoming the first zero-emissions powertrain employed in a commercially sold double-cab bakkie.
The model is capable of dispatching the 0–100 km/h sprint in just 4.5 seconds, while the automaker claims it still retains the brawn and functionality of a traditional bakkie, although it is worth noting that this isn’t founded on a ladder frame construction. Nonetheless, it is backed by a 5-year/150 000 km vehicle warranty and 8 year/200 000 km battery warranty, with Enviro Automotive claiming real-world battery life is expected to stretch even further than that.
Power in the 4×4 is generated courtesy of a 315 kW dual-motor powertrain, which also delivers 595 N.m and can hit a top speed of 190 km/h. All of this is superficial for prospective bakkie buyers, the bed is capable of swallowing 1 200 litres or carrying a 1-tonne payload while the bakkie can tow a maximum 3 tonnes. Enviro Automotive adds that the Riddara RD6 itself, in both 4×4 and 4×2 guises, promises to blur the line between performance vehicle and utility bakkie and break away from ladder-frame traditions for added driving smoothness and agility.
“The Riddara 4×4 electric bakkie is not just a new model – it’s a statement,” says Francois Malan, Head of Sales at Enviro Automotive. “Our partnership with Turner Morris ensures these vehicles aren’t just technological showcases, but practical tools ready for the realities of African roads and businesses.”
The bakkie will be displayed for the first time at the Nampo Harvest Day next week, alongside the business-oriented SRM T3 EV bakkie
Related: Enviro Automotive’s All-Electric SRM T3 Bakkie Lands in SA
Enviro Automotive adds that its EV lineup will see pricing reductions, courtesy of maturing battery tech and favourable trade conditions. This means that business-oriented panel vans like the DFSK EC35 panel van will be even more compelling for prospective buyers, according to the automaker. Enviro Automotive says that the model will see a R105 000 reduction during a current promotion, which also makes it the most affordable commercial EV in the country for now.
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In addition to this, Enviro Automotive has announced its strategic partnership with Turner Morris and hopes this collaboration will increase their footprint, with a combined 30+ outlets and workshops throughout South Africa.
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