The world is starting to appear quite grim for startups aiming to break into the EV market. This means that brands striving to survive must make significant commitments, and Mullen is doing just that with the Five RS, a high-performance version of its crossover unveiled today at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.
Although seeing EVs with impressive performance figures is nothing new, it’s still a little surprising to encounter an electric crossover making promises of this magnitude. Equipped with dual motors residing at the front and rear axles, the Five RS boasts a staggering 1,000 hp (746 kW/1,014 PS) and over 850 lb-ft (1,151 Nm) at its disposal, with Mullen claiming that it will be able to reach 60 mph (96 km/h) in under two seconds.
Even more impressively, the automaker promises that its crossover will be capable of reaching a top speed of 200 mph (322 km/h) or even higher. This speed is achieved with the assistance of a Porsche Taycan-style two-speed gearbox and an intriguing aerodynamic setup.
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As you can see, the model has a big wing at the back, in addition to a spoiler where the rear window meets the body. Another intriguing design cue is the duct at the front. While supercars like Ferraris and other use vents like these that create a double-layer hood, the way the inlets here form a “grille” of sorts, is a fascinating, and I think attractive, solution.
To ensure that it can accelerate consistently, Mullen says that it has designed an “ultra-performance race-track” mode. This adjusts settings in the throttle mapping, the powertrain, the battery cooling, the dampers, and the steering feel to give drivers the best possible experience.
To slow it all down, the Five RS gets six-piston Brembo brakes at the front, and four-piston calipers at the back, that all clamp down on carbon ceramic discs. Around them, Mullen has put high-performance 21-inch wheel tires in the rear, and 20-inchers at the front. According to the automaker, the RS can come to a full stop from 100 km/h (62 mph) in 110 ft (33 m).
The Five RS measures 193 inches (4,902 mm) in length, 80 inches (2,032 mm) in width, 64 inches (1,626 mm) in height, with a wheelbase of 116 inches (2,946 mm) and a ground clearance of 6.7 inches (170 mm).
A 300 mile range and 800V fast-charging architecture
The model is equipped with a 100 kWh battery pack that Mullen hopes will get it up to 300 miles (483 km) per charge or 25 miles less than the plain Five. To ensure it can charge quickly, it features an 800V architecture that allows it go from zero to 80 percent in about 20 minutes.
Speaking of high-tech features, it also has an integrated infotainment system, an AI-based personal assistance called Persona, facial recognition technology, and level 2+ driver assistance tech. Drivers will operate it from the premium Nubuck leather and Alcantara trimmed seats that have carbon fiber backs. The door inserts are also made of the lightweight material, and the Five RS is expected to tip the scales at 5,070 lbs (2,300 kg).
Mullen anticipates commencing production of the Five RS in late 2025, with sales set to commence in mid-2026. Subsequent versions of the SUV, including the $55,000 entry-level variant (originally slated for late last year), will follow in due course.