Geely, the Chinese automotive group that owns Volvo, Polestar, and ZEEKR, has announced a new 4WD version of its Radar RD6 electric truck, aimed at rivaling Tesla’s Cybertruck. Radar, Geely’s electric outdoors lifestyle vehicle brand, launched in 2022, and its first electric adventure vehicle, the RD6, debuted in China in September, priced at RMB 178,800 ($25,000).
The RD6, designed by renowned British auto designer Peter Horbury, is built on Geely’s SEA platform, shared with Polestar 4, Volvo EM90, and ZEEKR models. The electric pickup comes in three battery options, with up to 392 mi (632 km) CLTC range.
The 4WD model is set to launch in Q2 of this year, as confirmed by Radar CEO Ling Shiquan. Ling claims the new 4WD electric truck will match Tesla’s Cybertruck’s acceleration, even while carrying heavy loads. Furthermore, the 4WD RD6 will offer a higher wading depth than GM’s Hummer EV, currently at 32″ (813 mm).
Tesla’s Cybertruck has already proven its performance capabilities by outperforming a Ford F-150 Raptor R, Lamborghini Urus, Rivian R1T, and Hummer EV in a race, and even beating a Porsche 911 while towing another Porsche 911. The Cybertruck starts at $79,990, offering a 6-ft bed, 2,500 lbs payload, 11,000 lbs towing capacity, and 340 miles range.
Radar’s 4WD RD6 promises increased payload and towing capacities, along with the ability to charge other electric vehicles directly. In 2022, the RD6 accounted for 61.5% of China’s electric truck market share, and the company has recently begun exporting the electric pickup to overseas markets. Geely’s latest offering aims to challenge Tesla’s dominance in the electric truck segment.
