KGM SsangYong Musso EV detailed with prices as it launches in Korea: Could it be the car-based ute to kick off electric dual-cab sales in Australia before Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick have a chance?

After an extended pre-launch period, KGM SsangYong has detailed its electric car-based ute as it launches in its South Korean home market.

Part of an expansion of the Musso name as a sub-brand, which will also feature a replacement for the full-size ladder frame dual-cab currently sold in Australia, the Musso EV is instead based on the same monocoque platform as the Torres mid-size SUV, with which it also shares significant styling cues.

The Musso EV features a single battery option, consisting of an 80.6kWh LFP unit granting it a claimed/combined 400km driving range between charges for the base front-wheel drive version.

The base FWD has a 152kW/340Nm motor, while the dual-motor, all-wheel drive version produces 304kW/636Nm using a permanent AWD system KGM says has been developed based on know-how from its combustion 4x4 range.

Additionally, the Musso EV can be optionally equipped with a self-leveling rear suspension system which maintains the correct ride height regardless of load, however its maximum towing capacity according to Korean regulations is just 1800kg. Its payload is also a mere 500kg, putting it more in the lifestyle camp than positioning it as a heavy-duty load-lugger like Australia’s most popular dual-cab options. 

Interestingly, though, it also features a step cut-out like the current Ranger for easy access to the tray.

When it comes to off-road ability, the Musso EV has an approach angle of 19.2 degrees, a departure angle of 23 degrees and a ground clearance of 187mm.

It is capable of charging at a peak rate of 200kW meaning a 10-80 per cent charge in 24 minutes. It also features vehicle-to-load, allowing it to support the use of power tools and camping equipment.

Inside, the Musso EV also has a much more modern design than the current combustion ute, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens for the multimedia system and digital instrument cluster. It features the brand’s latest ‘Athena 2.0’ operating system which is also capable of supporting phone app connectivity. It is also available in an array of trim choices in its home market, either a black leather, tan leather or a white two-tone finish.

The brand has even launched the Musso EV with an array of factory modifications, including a roll bar, rolling tonneau cover and a roof carrier. 

Other factory options include a ‘clear sight’ ground view camera, sunroof, 360-degree parking camera suite, genuine leather seats, front and rear skid plates, as well as a premium Alpine audio system.

The Musso EV is priced from the equivalent of A$52,000 for the base 2WD which would make it an interesting offer in Australia, although it is unclear how much extra may be added to the price-tag once the ute is converted to right-hand drive and had local compliance and import fees added.

KGM SsangYong has confirmed the Musso EV for a local launch although timing or pricing is yet to be locked in.

Thus far SsangYong's new Korean owner has been on a new-model blitz to try and turn around the perpetually embattled brand. The Torres has launched to replace the outgoing Korando as the company's mid-size SUV offering and the Actyon will soon arrive as a slightly larger, more Mitsubishi Outlander-sized alternative.

KGM SsangYong is also yet to offer any electric vehicle Down Under, although the Torres EVX has been on its radar for some time.