The Australian automotive landscape is about to get more interesting. KGM SsangYong is launching its first electric ute, the Musso EV, while simultaneously dropping the SsangYong name to become simply KGM Australia from June 1, 2025. This isn’t just another electric vehicle launch – it’s a complete brand transformation that could shake up how Australians think about electric utes.
Why This Electric Ute Matters
The Musso EV represents something unique in the Australian market: an electric ute designed for lifestyle buyers rather than heavy-duty tradies. Unlike the rugged ladder-frame utes that dominate Australian roads, this electric newcomer takes a different approach entirely.
Think of it as the ute equivalent of moving from a heavy-duty truck to a comfortable SUV. The Musso EV is built on the same monocoque platform as the Torres SUV, prioritizing comfort and efficiency over maximum towing capacity. This means smoother rides, better fuel economy, and a more car-like driving experience.
Real-World Performance That Makes Sense
The base front-wheel drive Musso EV delivers 152kW and 340Nm, while the all-wheel drive version bumps that up to 304kW and 636Nm. These aren’t just numbers on a spec sheet – they translate to genuine performance that most drivers will actually use.
The 80.6kWh battery provides a claimed 400km range for the front-wheel drive version. For most Australians, that’s enough for a week of commuting plus weekend adventures without range anxiety.
How It Stacks Up Against Traditional Utes
| Specification | Musso EV |
|---|---|
| Power Output | 152kW (FWD) / 304kW (AWD) |
| Torque | 340Nm (FWD) / 636Nm (AWD) |
| Battery Capacity | 80.6kWh LFP |
| Range | 400km (claimed) |
| Towing Capacity | 1,800kg |
| Payload | 500kg |
| Estimated Australian Price | From ~$52,000 |
| Korean Launch Price | ~$44,000 (with subsidies) |
The numbers tell an interesting story. While the 1,800kg towing capacity and 500kg payload put it firmly in the lifestyle category rather than the heavy-duty workhorse arena, these figures actually suit most Australian drivers perfectly. How many people really need to tow 3.5 tonnes regularly?
What Makes This Different
The Musso EV includes features like self-leveling rear suspension and a step cut-out similar to the Ford Ranger for easy tray access. These details matter when you’re actually living with the vehicle day-to-day.
The design philosophy focuses on urban practicality with outdoor capability. KGM describes it as an “urban electric pickup” that lets owners “enjoy a lifestyle that encompasses the city and the outdoors.”
The Bigger Picture: Brand Transformation
The timing isn’t coincidental – KGM is launching the Musso EV alongside its complete rebrand from SsangYong to KGM Australia. This represents more than just a name change; it’s a signal of renewed ambition and investment in the Australian market.
What Buyers Can Expect
The Korean launch suggests Australian pricing could start around $52,000, though this may change with right-hand drive conversion and local compliance costs. That positions it competitively against other electric utes while offering genuine value compared to premium SUVs.
KGM has confirmed the Musso EV will arrive in Australia during 2025, making it potentially the first electric ute to target lifestyle buyers rather than commercial users.
Should You Wait for It?
The Musso EV makes sense for Australians who want the versatility of a ute without the compromises of traditional heavy-duty models. If you’re currently driving a large SUV but occasionally need load space, this could be the perfect middle ground.
However, if you regularly tow heavy trailers or need maximum payload capacity, traditional diesel utes still make more sense. The Musso EV is about lifestyle flexibility, not maximum capability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the KGM Musso EV be available in Australia?
A: KGM has confirmed a 2025 launch, though specific timing hasn’t been announced yet.
Q: How much will the electric ute cost in Australia?
A: While not officially confirmed, estimates suggest pricing from around $52,000 based on Korean market pricing.
Q: Can the Musso EV replace a traditional work ute?
A: It depends on your needs. With 1,800kg towing and 500kg payload, it suits lifestyle use but may not meet heavy commercial requirements.
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