Electric vehicles are becoming more affordable, but electric pickup trucks are still rare — especially in the budget segment. That’s why a newly revealed Chinese electric pickup truck priced around $18,000 is creating so much buzz. Even more interesting? It looks strikingly similar to the iconic Toyota Hilux, a name trusted worldwide for toughness and reliability.
This new EV pickup could be a turning point for buyers who want utility, modern technology, and electric efficiency — without spending a fortune.
Bold and Practical Design Inspired by the Toyota Hilux
The first thing you’ll notice about this electric pickup is its strong, rugged design. The boxy shape, muscular wheel arches, wide stance, and upright front end closely resemble the Toyota Hilux, giving it an instantly familiar and confident road presence.
Its size is nearly identical to a traditional midsize pickup, which means it’s practical for daily use, city driving, and light off-road duties. Whether you’re commuting to work or carrying weekend cargo, the design feels purpose-built rather than experimental.
Key design highlights include:
- Pickup-style flat cargo bed
- High ground clearance
- Strong body lines and modern LED lighting
- Practical proportions suitable for urban and rural use
Electric Powertrain and Performance Overview
Despite its affordable pricing, this EV pickup offers impressive electric performance options.
Battery Options and Driving Range
Buyers can choose between two battery packs, depending on their needs:
- 66.5 kWh Battery
- Up to 405 km (252 miles) range in rear-wheel drive (RWD)
- Up to 510 km (317 miles) range in all-wheel drive (AWD)
- 88 kWh Battery (AWD only)
- Around 505 km (314 miles) range (CLTC cycle)
This range makes it perfectly suitable for daily commuting, local deliveries, and weekend travel without frequent charging anxiety.
Motor Setup and Driving Experience
The electric pickup is offered in both RWD and AWD configurations:
- RWD Variant
- Single motor producing around 150 kW (200 hp)
- Torque output of approximately 350 Nm
- AWD Variant
- Dual-motor setup producing up to 300 kW (400 hp)
- Strong torque of around 540 Nm
Instant electric torque ensures smooth acceleration, especially useful when carrying loads or driving in stop-and-go traffic.
Interior, Technology, and Comfort Features
Step inside, and the cabin feels modern and tech-focused, far from what you’d expect at this price point.
Notable interior features include:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Optional 15.6-inch large display
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 processor for fast, smooth performance
- Digital instrument cluster
- Clean, practical dashboard layout
The overall cabin design focuses on ease of use, making it comfortable for everyday drivers and first-time EV owners.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Safety hasn’t been ignored, especially in higher variants. Depending on the trim, buyers can expect:
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-keeping assistance
- Multiple airbags
- Electronic stability control and traction systems
These features help make daily driving safer and more relaxed, especially on highways.
Quick Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Electric Pickup Truck |
| Design Style | Hilux-inspired |
| Battery Options | 66.5 kWh / 88 kWh |
| Range (CLTC) | 405–510 km |
| Drive Options | RWD / AWD |
| Power Output | 200 hp (RWD) / 400 hp (AWD) |
| Torque | 350 Nm – 540 Nm |
| Infotainment | 12.3″ / 15.6″ Touchscreen |
Price: The Biggest Highlight
The most shocking part of this EV pickup is its price.
- Starting price: approx. $18,000
- Top variants: around $22,000
At this price point, it undercuts most electric cars — let alone electric pickup trucks — making it one of the most affordable EV utility vehicles in the world.
Who Is This Electric Pickup Best For?
This vehicle makes sense for:
- Daily commuters looking for an affordable EV
- Small business owners and delivery users
- Buyers who want a pickup without high fuel costs
- Budget-focused users who still want modern tech and safety
Final Verdict: A Budget Electric Pickup with Massive Potential
This $18,000 Chinese electric pickup proves that electric utility vehicles don’t have to be expensive. With its familiar Hilux-like design, solid driving range, modern features, and aggressive pricing, it opens the door for a whole new group of buyers to consider an electric pickup.
For commuters, small businesses, and value-driven customers, this EV pickup could be a smart, future-ready alternative to traditional fuel-powered trucks. If affordability and practicality matter to you, this is one electric pickup worth watching closely.
