The MAXUS eTERRON 9: Pioneering the Future of Electric Pick-Ups
The electric vehicle revolution is accelerating, and the MAXUS eTERRON 9 is here to push the boundaries of what we expect from electric pick-ups. As the first fully electric pick-up with standard all-wheel drive in Europe, the eTERRON 9 has made a grand entrance at the IAA Transportation in Hanover on September 16th, 2024. This innovative vehicle not only marks the beginning of a new era for MAXUS but also sets new standards for the entire mid-size pick-up segment.
Before we dive into the specifics of the eTERRON 9, it's important to understand the significance of this launch for MAXUS and the broader electric vehicle landscape. As part of the SAIC Group, MAXUS is on a mission to lead the way in sustainable, emission-free mobility. The eTERRON 9 is not just another addition to the lineup—it's the start of a comprehensive model offensive aimed at transforming the European market.
MAXUS has recognised the demand for versatile, powerful, and eco-friendly vehicles, which is where the eTERRON 9 comes in, combining the capabilities of a traditional pick-up with the benefits of electric mobility. This launch signals the brand's commitment to delivering innovative and environmentally responsible vehicles without compromising on performance or utility.
This versatile all-wheel-drive pick-up is designed to handle a variety of tasks, from daily commuting to off-road adventures. With its robust dual-motor system and advanced driving modes, it offers an impressive blend of power, capability, and control.
At the heart of the eTERRON 9 is a dual-motor system that delivers a combined system output of 325kW (442 hp). This power is distributed through two permanent magnet synchronous motors, providing 125kW (170 hp) to the front axle and 200kW (272 hp) to the rear axle. This setup not only ensures rapid acceleration but also provides the all-wheel-drive traction needed for a variety of driving conditions.
• Front Motor: 125kW (170 hp)
• Rear Motor: 200kW (272 hp)
• System Output: 325kW (442 hp)
This dual-motor configuration allows the eTERRON 9 to deliver instant torque, ensuring impressive performance both on and off the road. Whether you’re navigating city streets, towing heavy loads, or tackling off-road trails, this pick-up provides the power and control you need.
One of the standout features of the eTERRON 9 is its All-Terrain System (ATS), which includes six preset driving modes—Normal, Mud, Sand, Snow, Sport, and Eco. Each mode is optimised for specific driving conditions, adjusting parameters like throttle response, traction control, and suspension settings to provide the best possible performance. But MAXUS takes it a step further by allowing drivers to create a custom driving mode. This user-defined mode lets you adjust the steering feel, engine power, stability control response, energy recovery rate, and air suspension height. With over 400 possible combinations, you can tailor the eTERRON 9's performance to suit your personal driving style and the demands of the terrain.
One of the key challenges for electric vehicles, particularly in the pick-up segment, is achieving a balance between power and range. The eTERRON 9 addresses this with a cutting-edge 102kWh high-voltage battery, designed to deliver long-range capability without compromising on performance.
The battery pack in the eTERRON 9 is designed using a "Tetris" construction method, which organises the cells in a nine-cell protective frame. This design distributes forces horizontally and vertically, similar to the interlocking blocks in the game Tetris. This not only maximises the battery's capacity but also enhances its safety and durability by minimising space requirements.
Battery efficiency is further enhanced by an innovative 9 channel ventilation system, which helps maintain optimal battery temperature. Efficient thermal management is crucial for ensuring consistent performance, especially in extreme weather conditions. The system improves range in winter by up to 18% compared to conventional electric vehicles, making the eTERRON 9 a reliable choice all year round.
With a range of up to 267 miles on a single charge, the eTERRON 9 is well-suited for both daily driving and long-distance travel. When it’s time to recharge, the eTERRON 9 can be charged from 20% to 80% in around 40 using a rapid charger with up to 115kW output. This fast charging capability ensures minimal downtime, allowing you to get back on the road quickly.
The eTERRON 9 is designed to be more than just a vehicle; it's a versatile tool for both work and play. Whether you need a reliable workhorse for your business or a capable vehicle for outdoor adventures, the eTERRON 9 has been engineered to meet a wide range of needs.
One of the most innovative features of the eTERRON 9 is its Vehicle to Load (V2L) function. This system allows the pick-up to serve as a mobile power bank, providing power to external devices. With 2.2kW sockets in the front trunk and on the pickup bed, and an external 6.6kW connection, you can power a wide range of equipment and devices, from tools for tradesmen to camping gear like e-bikes and cool boxes. This feature adds a layer of versatility that traditional pick-ups simply can’t match.
The eTERRON 9's design is as functional as it is rugged. The vehicle measures 5.50 meters in length and offers a maximum payload of 620 kilograms. The spacious bed is perfect for transporting a variety of goods, and the innovative rear wall of the driver's cab can be lowered at the touch of a button. This expands the loading area to 2.40 meters, making it ideal for carrying longer items like surfboards, skis, or construction materials.
In addition to the rear bed, the eTERRON 9 features a 236-litre frunk, providing weatherproof storage for luggage, tools, or camping gear. This additional storage space is not only practical but also cleverly designed to include seating space for two, perfect for taking a break or having a BBQ when camping.
When it comes to towing, the eTERRON 9 is a class leader with a maximum towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes, making it one of the most capable electric pick-ups in its segment, ready to tow anything from trailers to boats.
The cabin of the eTERRON 9 is a blend of functionality and luxury. The soft leather upholstery creates an upscale ambiance, while the eight-way electrically adjustable driver's seat offers ventilation and a massage function. This level of comfort is rarely found in the pick-up segment, making the eTERRON 9 a standout choice for those who want to combine utility with a touch of luxury. The interior is designed to offer a premium experience, making every journey, whether short or long, a comfortable one.
The front seats can be fully reclined to create a flat sleeping area 170 cm long, which is perfect for overnight stays or taking a rest during long trips. With 20 storage compartments distributed throughout the cabin, there's ample space for stowing everyday items, tools, or travel gear.
The eTERRON 9 features a multi-link rear suspension with air suspension, providing a level of ride comfort typically associated with luxury passenger cars. This setup not only enhances driving stability but also reduces rolling and pitching movements, ensuring a smooth ride regardless of the terrain. The air suspension can be adjusted to raise or lower the vehicle's height, improving aerodynamics and range. The Easy Load mode lowers the loading area by 60 millimetres, making it easier to load heavy or bulky items.
Built on a semi-monocoque body that combines the benefits of unibody construction and a ladder frame, its designed to provide exceptional driving stability and a high level of comfort, while the high-strength steel construction ensures robust protection. Ultra-high-strength steel makes up 73% of the body structure, particularly in critical areas like the A, B, and C pillars. This contributes to its expected five-star Euro NCAP rating, setting a new standard for safety in the electric pick-up segment.
To enhance safety and help prevent accidents, the eTERRON 9 is equipped with an array of advanced driver assistance systems, including:
• Emergency Braking System: Detects potential collisions and applies the brakes if necessary to avoid or mitigate impacts.
• Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane, helping to prevent accidents caused by inattentive driving.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed to match traffic conditions.
Visibility is enhanced by the Great Surround-Terrain Lighting System, which features ultra-high beam headlights capable of shining more than 400 meters ahead. This not only improves safety during nighttime driving but also makes the eTERRON 9 highly visible in low-light conditions.
The launch of the eTERRON 9 is just the beginning of a broader strategy by MAXUS to lead the charge in electric mobility. Over the next few years, MAXUS plans to introduce a range of new electric vehicles in Europe, each designed to meet the growing demand for sustainable and emission-free transport solutions.
By focusing on innovation, versatility, and quality, MAXUS aims to become a key player in the global electric vehicle market. The eTERRON 9 exemplifies this vision, offering a glimpse into the future of electric pick-ups and the potential for these vehicles to reshape the way we think about mobility.
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