Nearly 20,000 all-electric utes have been secured for the Australian market, through a new deal between EV startup Atlis Motors and Australian Manufactured Vehicles (AusMV).

Under the new partnership, AusMV will purchase 19,000 Atlis XT pick-up trucks, convert them to right-hand-drive and sell them throughout Southeast Asia.

“Many traditional automakers have overlooked Australia when launching new EVs for a variety of reasons, but we see things differently. Our long-range, fast-charging electric work trucks are ideal for this market,” said Mark Hanchett, CEO and founder of Atlis.

The Atlis XT promises a full suite of features to fit any tradesperson, off-road adventurer, or weekend warrior.

Specs include either a single or dual motor set up with 447kW peak power, more than 16,000Nm torque, and a maximum 240kWh battery with up to 800km claimed driving range. Atlis claims the vehicle can complete a 0-100km/hr sprint in under five seconds. The vehicle will also have a 15-tonne towing capacity and an 8-foot-long bed.

In addition to these hefty specifications, the Atlis XT will include “vehicle-to-load” charging ports in multiple configurations for devices and tools, an air compressor and large frunk (front truck) storage.

For the Australian market, the electric ute will be partially manufactured in Queensland. The vehicles will arrive without a steering wheel or connection to the drivetrain. The final assemblage will be the responsibility of AusMV to comply with Australia’s design standards.

“Atlis has an innovative product and a solid business plan that covers not only the vehicle production but also, battery manufacturing and charging technology that is suited to Australia’s conditions. Our confidence in the Atlis team is so great, that we have invested in the company,” said Eddie Kocwa, Managing Director of AusMV.

“Atlis’ expertise in battery and EV design, development and manufacturing combined with AusMV’s competency in vehicle assembly and its truck market penetration in the market creates an ideal partnership.”

AusMV expects some vehicles out on the road next year for testing, with the first deliveries slated for 2023.

Source: The Driven | AusMV strikes deal to bring 19,000 all-electric utes with 800km range to Australia

7 September 2021