Canoo’s New Pickup Truck Is An Electric Forward Control Vehicle For The Modern Era

Canoo has unveiled an electric pickup during the Motor Press Guild’s Virtual Media Day.

Set to become the third vehicle based on Canoo’s proprietary platform, the pickup is essentially a modern-day forward control vehicle.

The overall design closely echoes Canoo’s van, but the truck is decidedly more rugged as it adopts a beefy front bumper, skid plates and extended wheel arches. We can also see 18-inch wheels wrapped in meaty off-road tires. And if you’re seeing some hints of VW Type 2 Pickup in its silhouette, you’re not the only one.

Also Read: Canoo’s First EV Is A Very Spacious, Subscription-Only Van Coming In 2021

Besides the distinctive design, the truck has an assortment of interesting features. Out back, there’s a pull-out bed extension which increases the length of the bed, from 6 to 8 feet, to allow for loading of longer items such as 4 by 8 foot sheets of plywood. Since the ‘regular’ tailgate doors are swung out when the bed is extended, they have been equipped auxiliary taillights and secondary tailgate doors that can be opened to secure cargo.

The bed innovations don’t stop there as the truck has power outlets as well perimeter lighting and a third brake light that doubles as an overhead light. Canoo also developed a bed divider system, which can be used to help separate and secure cargo. Last but not least, there are hidden side steps that improve access to the bed while also providing a storage space for smaller items.

Putting the bed aside, the pickup has a frunk with electrical outlets and a front panel that doubles as an extendable work table. If one table isn’t enough, you’ll be happy to learn there’s an additional table on both sides of the bed. Customers will also be able to order a variety of roof racks and camper shells.

Canoo didn’t release interior pictures, but said the extended cab pickup has two front seats and a “customizable rear compartment that can accommodate two additional seats or support additional purpose-built use-case configurability.” The model will also have “trim and materials selected for durability,” so it sounds like we can expect a ruggedized cabin.

On the performance front, there will be rear and dual motor powertrains. The latter variant will produce up to 600 hp (447 kW / 608 PS) and 550 lb-ft (746 Nm) of torque.

Additional details are limited, but Canoo said the truck will have a range in excess of 200 miles (322 km). The model will also have a payload capacity of 1,800 lbs (816 kg) and a tow hitch receiver, although the towing capacity remains unknown.

Canoo will begin accepting pre-orders in the second quarter of this year and the first deliveries could start as early as 2023.