The electric vehicle revolution has finally reached the pickup truck segment in Korea, with KG Mobility introducing the Musso EV as their groundbreaking first electric ute. This isn’t just another concept vehicle – it’s a production-ready truck that promises to shake up the electric pickup market.
What Makes the Musso EV Special
The Musso EV represents more than just an electric conversion of an existing truck. KG Mobility has taken the bold step of creating Korea’s first electric pickup, positioning themselves ahead of industry giants like Hyundai and Kia who are still developing their electric truck offerings.
What’s particularly exciting is how closely the production version follows the 2023 O100 concept vehicle. The dramatic styling hasn’t been watered down for mass production, maintaining those eye-catching design elements that made the concept so appealing.
Design That Turns Heads
The Musso EV showcases distinctive styling that sets it apart from traditional pickup trucks. The front end borrows heavily from the Torres EVX electric SUV, creating a cohesive family look across KG Mobility’s electric lineup.
Key design highlights include unusual trim pieces positioned above the wheel arches, giving the truck a more aggressive stance. The chunky sports bar treatment at the rear of the cab adds both visual appeal and practical functionality. Perhaps most striking are the machined alloy wheels that give the vehicle a premium appearance typically associated with high-end concept cars.
Technical Expectations
While KG Mobility hasn’t released official specifications, industry observers expect the Musso EV to share its powertrain with the Torres EVX. This would mean a front-mounted electric motor delivering 152kW of power and 339Nm of torque, paired with a 73.4kWh lithium iron phosphate battery from BYD.
If these specifications prove accurate, drivers could expect around 462 kilometers of range based on WLTP testing standards. This range would make the Musso EV competitive with other electric vehicles in its class while providing the practical benefits of a pickup truck.
Market Positioning and Brand Strategy
KG Mobility is using the Musso EV launch to revive the Musso nameplate in Korea, where it hasn’t been used for some time. The current truck sold as the Musso in other markets is known as the Rexton Sports in Korea.
The company is positioning Musso as a dedicated pickup sub-brand, with plans to develop and expand a diverse portfolio of pickup trucks in the future. This strategic move suggests KG Mobility sees significant growth potential in the electric truck segment.
Australian Market Plans
Australian truck enthusiasts won’t have to miss out on this electric revolution. KGM SsangYong Australia has confirmed plans to bring the Musso EV to local markets, though they haven’t provided specific launch timing. There’s also a possibility the vehicle might wear a different nameplate when it arrives in Australia.
Specifications Overview
| Specification | Expected Details |
|---|---|
| Motor Power | 152kW (front-mounted) |
| Torque | 339Nm |
| Battery | 73.4kWh LFP (BYD) |
| Range | ~462km (WLTP) |
| Launch Market | Korea Q1 2025 |
| Construction | Unibody platform |
The Heritage Behind the Name
The Musso nameplate carries significant heritage within the KG Mobility lineup. First introduced in 1993, the name derives from the Korean word ‘muso’, meaning rhinoceros – a fitting metaphor for a tough, dependable vehicle.
The company’s pickup truck history dates back to 2002 with the Musso Sports, which was based on the Musso SUV platform. This new electric iteration continues that tradition while embracing modern electrification technology.
What This Means for Buyers
For potential buyers, the Musso EV represents an interesting alternative to traditional diesel pickup trucks. The combination of electric efficiency with pickup truck practicality could appeal to both commercial users and lifestyle buyers who want something different from the mainstream options.
The vehicle promises “the operating economy of an electric vehicle, the original usability of a pickup truck, and a practical style” with customization options to suit various needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the Musso EV be available in Australia?
A: KGM SsangYong Australia has confirmed plans to bring it here but hasn’t announced specific timing yet.
Q: How much will the Musso EV cost?
A: Pricing hasn’t been announced for any market, including Korea where it launches first.
Q: Will it compete with Ford Lightning and other electric trucks?
A: Yes, it’s positioned as Korea’s first electric pickup to compete in the growing electric truck segment.
