SsangYong Launches Korando EV, Second Electric SUV And Pickup On The Way

SsangYong is doing its best to stay afloat and become more attractive to investors by accelerating new vehicle development and preparing to launch a fully electric range of two midsize SUVs and a pick-up.

The Korean company, which suffered from low sales figures, filed for receivership back in December 2020 after missing loan payments, was listed for sale by its major stake owner Mahindra & Mahindra and has struggled since to receive financial aid from banks. However, SsangYong’s design and engineering departments are working passionately on upcoming models.

Also Read: SsangYong Battles On With Surprisingly Significant Rexton Update

After last year’s teaser, the automaker announced its first all-electric model, the Korando e-Motion, which is expected to launch in Europe this August and in the UK later in 2021. Production commenced on Monday, June 14, but the semiconductor shortages lead to a small delay in the Korean launch.

While we don’t have details about the electric powertrain or the battery of the Korando e-Motion, it is clearly based on the 2019 Korando with a few design touches (covered grille, redesigned bumpers, aero wheels, etc.) hinting at its all-electric nature and improving its aerodynamic efficiency.

The second electric SUV from SsangYong will follow and will sit below the larger Rexton. It is codenamed J100 and as we can see from the official sketches it has a little bit of Range Rover flavor at the front and a hint of Ford Bronco Sport at the back. This model is expected to launch in 2022 and will be followed by a fully electric pick up truck.

The three new EVs will complement the internal combustion range of SsangYong which includes the Tivoli, the Korando, the Musso, and the Rexton.

Besides launching environmentally-friendly models “to meet the future demands of the international automotive market”, SsangYong has a self-rescue plan for “ensuring its survival in the rapidly changing automotive marketplace and achieving future growth”. According to the company, its management is focused on “improving liquidity, human resources management, and production efficiencies” in a rally to reestablish trust in the brand.

SsangYong Motors Receiver, Yong Won Chung, said in a statement: “We are establishing a strong foothold for corporate rehabilitation through a successful M&A and putting our very best efforts into new car development by addressing the rapidly changing automotive trends. In addition, we are expanding the line-up of eco-cars, discovering future growth opportunities such as new business models, and preparing for renewed competitiveness.”