If it wants to remain competitive in the market, SsangYong, just like the rest of the carmakers out there, has to develop greener powertrains.
The Koreans appear to be looking at an electric version of the next generation Korando. Expected to show up in 2020, according to Autocar, it will probably draw inspiration from the e-SIV Concept that debuted this year.
The study has a futuristic shape, is slightly larger than the current Korando and uses a 190 PS (187 HP / 140 kW) electric motor that’s powered by a 61.5 kWh battery. The company estimates it has a total driving range of 320-450 km (200-280 miles), depending on the conditions.
Speaking to the British publication, SsangYong UK chief, Nick Laird, said that the electric Korando will be “a huge step forward, even over the current model”. He added that “it sticks to the company’s roots and DNA of trying to be a proper SUV and crossover brand”, and will be a “proper 4×4” and “off-road capable”.
Also Read: SsangYong Will Enter The US Market By 2020, CEO Says
SsangYong appears to be interested in a diesel-electric derivative of the SUV, too, which combines the best of both worlds, in theory at least: improved fuel consumption, lower CO2 emissions, good amount of torque and improved driving range.
“I’m interested to see how diesel hybrid plays out”, Laird commented. “I think there’s a place for a diesel hybrid; many of our vehicles are used for towing, and for that you need to have good torque. Diesel works very well for that kind of application, as do electric and hybrid.”
Laird admitted that the technology is currently in development, but consumers will have the final word about it. “I do hope that the diesel market recovers. I think it deserves to.”
The automaker is also working on two other vehicles based on the same underpinnings as the Tivoli. Moreover, it appears that another SUV based on the Rexton is being planned, too, according to Laird, who wasn’t keen on discussing these products.
Note: SsangYong e-SIV Concept pictured