The Chinese automaker Geely plans to launch in South Africa later this year, and its bringing a new bakkie along with it.
While Geely primarily focuses on crossovers and SUVs, it has its own 4×4 sub-brand in the form of Riddara, which currently produces a single pickup truck called the RD6.
Riddara recently announced that it has partnered with the Enviro Automotive Group, a local distributor, to import the RD6, which means South Africans can expect to get their hands on the new bakkie very soon.
The company previously stated that the RD6 will go on sale in May 2025, though the vehicle has evidently been delayed, since it has yet to make its local debut.
In any case, the Riddara RD6 is set to be an unusual entry in our market, as it will be the country’s first all-electric lifestyle double cab.
It’s technically not South Africa’s first electric bakkie, as Maxus launched the T90 a few years ago.
However, the T90 is solely aimed at the commercial sector as a fleet vehicle, while the incoming RD6 is meant for private households.
What to expect
At launch, the RD6 will be offered in both rear-wheel (RWD) and four-wheel-drive (4WD) specifications, which determine its drivetrain.
The RWD models feature a single electric motor over the rear axle, which produces 200kW and 384Nm.
In contrast, the 4WD units have an e-motors over both axles, which combine to generate a respectable 315kW and 595Nm.
This allows the range-topping RD6 to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in a lightning-quick 4.5 seconds, making it even faster than the Ford Ranger Raptor.
Both versions of the pickup are fitted with a 73kWh battery good for 424km, which can be recharged in 30 minutes using a 110kW DC fast outlet.
As far as its utility is concerned, the Riddara can carry 1,000kg in the rear tray, and tow up to 3,000kg.
The Chinese bakkie’s equipment sheet isn’t too shabby either, as it comes with Matrix LED headlights, a multifunction steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery, an electric driver’s seat, six speakers, a panoramic camera system, a 10.25-inch digital driver display, and a 14.6-inch floating infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, depending on the trim level.
Riddara has yet to reveal the price tag of the RD6, though it did state that each model would be sold with a 5-year/150,000km warranty and an 8-year/200,000km battery warranty.
Riddara RD6
Loading ...
