KGM Launches Musso EV Electric Pickup Truck in South Korea

KGM Unveils Musso EV, Reviving a Classic Name as an Electric Pickup

KG Mobility (KGM), formerly known as SsangYong Motor, has launched its new all-electric pickup truck, the Musso EV, in South Korea. The new EV boasts a starting price in the late 30 million won range (approximately $22,000 USD), after government subsidies, making it a potentially attractive option for both personal and small business use.

KGM introduced the Musso EV at a new vehicle presentation held at the company’s headquarters in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi Province, on March 5th. The event was attended by KGM Chairman Kwak Jae-sun and other key executives.

In his welcome speech, Chairman Kwak noted the company’s commitment to the future. “KGM has been a ‘loser’ in the automobile market, but it will not go back to the difficult past. As it is a small company, we will move faster and leap to become a global automobile leader,” he stated. He also highlighted the personal significance of the Musso EV, saying, “As the chairman, the first car I approved for the development of a new car is a Musso EV, so I have a special feeling. I will make the Musso brand more proud starting with this car.”

The Musso EV utilizes lithium iron phosphate (LFP) blade batteries supplied by BYD, the Chinese electric vehicle and battery manufacturer. This configuration allows the pickup to achieve a claimed range of 400 kilometers (approximately 249 miles) on a single charge, with a battery capacity of 80.6 kWh.

Features of the Musso EV include:

• Strong Design: KGM’s ‘Powered by Toughness’ design philosophy is evident in the Musso EV’s rugged exterior.
• Spacious Interior: The cabin offers seating space comparable to a mid-size SUV, with sliding and reclining second-row seats, providing generous head and legroom.
• Practical Deck: The pickup bed can carry up to 500kg (approximately 1,102 lbs), with options for deck covers and roll bars.
• V2L Function: The vehicle includes a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function, which allows owners to draw power from the vehicle’s battery to power external devices.

The 2WD model has a maximum output of 207 horsepower, while the four-wheel-drive version delivers 413 horsepower. With a 200kWh fast charger, the Musso EV can charge up to 80% in just 24 minutes.

The Musso EV is available in two trims: MX and Black Edge. The base price is 48 million won (MX) and 50.5 million won (Black Edge). With government subsidies, the actual purchase price can be in the late 30-million-won range, making it a competitive option. Small business owners can further reduce the price through additional support and VAT refunds.

The Musso name is a revival of a popular model discontinued in 2005. KGM plans to expand the Musso pickup brand with upcoming models such as the Musso Sports and Musso Khan.