China Shocks Auto World with $2,530 Electric Mini Truck!

A pickup truck priced at a whopping $2,530 has appeared, making it a hot topic. This is GMF (code name), a small electric pickup truck released by Chinese startup Shandong Keyu Special Automobile. Competition in the Chinese electric vehicle market has recently become fiercer through low-priced electric vehicles and price cuts, but is a price of $2,530 possible?

This company has produced three-wheeled electric bicycles, electric lawnmowers, and electric sweepers. Recently, it launched GMF, a small electric truck. If we look at the overall shape, it is not much different from an actual pickup truck, except that it is slightly smaller.

Top Speed of 28 MPH, Used in Factories and Airports

However, if we look at the powertrain, there is a big difference. It is equipped with a small 4 kW electric motor, so the maximum speed is limited to 28 mph. For safety reasons, the maximum speed appears to have been limited through software. A 72V 100 Ah or 200 Ah battery provides a driving range of 62 miles and 93 miles, respectively.

Looking at the configuration, it appears to be a mini-vehicle for use in golf courses, factories, airports, etc. rather than for driving on actual roads. It appears that the loading box can be used to load and move materials or goods. Although the parts that can be utilized are limited, if we look at the other configurations, it is quite authentic. Drum brakes are installed on the front and rear wheels for safe braking.

Design Resembling Range Rover

Leaf spring suspension was added to provide a stable ride. Moreover, despite its small size, it has two rows. However, the second row is configured without seats and appears to be used only for loading luggage. Even though the design is affordable, it has all the configurations. In particular, the square grille and chain-shaped design on the front are similar to those of the Range Rover.

The internal shape of the vertically extending square headlamp and the pixels divided into upper and lower parts is similar to the Range Rover tail lamp. It seems difficult to avoid criticism that the designs are similar, as even the horizontal decoration of the lower bumper is the same. The body size is minimal, with a length of 145.7 inches, a width of 57.1 inches, a height of 65 inches, and a wheelbase of 96.5 inches.

Interior Has Basic Specifications, Some Parts Have a 1-Year Warranty

The interior features some basic specifications, including a touchscreen display, power windows, and a steering wheel. However, as the price is low, most of the interior is covered with plastic interior materials, making it difficult to hide the rugged feel. Another disappointing thing is that the small size of the wheels makes it difficult to drive on sandy or rough roads.

If we look at the actual test-driving video, we can see the vehicle body shaking significantly on a dirt road with a rough surface. Since the intended use is limited, such as in factories, airports, and golf courses, this may need to be taken into consideration. Although there are some regrets, GMF is competitive in its own way through these advantages, such as the low price of $2,530 and the warranty period of up to one year for some parts.