Canoo Inc., the American company which is working with the Hyundai Motor Group to develop a new electric vehicle (EV) platform, has also been working on its on purpose-built EVs with a proprietary and highly versatile platform architecture. The result of its efforts has been revealed in the unveiling of a fully-electric pick-up truck which will go into production for first deliveries beginning in 2023. By then, it won’t be the only electric pick-up as a few other companies have also said they will start delivering their EVs then.
The pick-up truck is the third vehicle that will be based on the company’s proprietary multi-purpose platform architecture, enabling the accelerated development timeline. While traditional EV platforms have power units, shock towers and mechanical steering columns that take up space within the vehicle, Canoo’s EV platform functionally integrates all the critical components of an electric powertrain to be as flat and efficient as possible.
By incorporating steer-by-wire and other space-saving technologies, the thin platform, with no need for an engine compartment, allows a flatbed size comparable to America’s best-selling pick-up truck (the Ford F-Series) on a smaller footprint. This makes the vehicle easier to manoeuvre and more convenient to drive and park in any terrain.
“We are so passionate about building vehicles that can change people’s lives,” said Tony Aquila, Executive Chairman of Canoo. “Our pick-up truck is as strong as the toughest trucks out there and is designed to be exponentially more productive. This truck works for you. We made accessories for people who use trucks – on the job, weekends, adventure.”
Unique features
Canoo’s pick-up truck has several unique features to help customers do more with their vehicles. Among them is a pull-handle bed extension that can extend the standard 6-foot ((1.83 metres) bed to a fully enclosed 8 feet (2.44 metres), allowing big items plywood sheets to easily fit inside. The payload is rated at up to 816 kgs.
The pull-handle bed extension also helps with loading and unloading the truck. When the bed is extended, a second layer of tailgate doors can be swiveled out. The bed-extension also houses a secondary lamp, containing all tail lamp functions, so the truck can be driven while the bed space is maximized. The extension also serves as a license plate holder.
Cargo Storage
To maximise utility, there’s a fold-down worktable with electrical outlets. The table is extendable to allow a large work surface on the go, in addition to providing an area to put on gear before heading out exploring. Tools and other equipment can be stored in a cargo storage area at the front.
Both sides of the vehicle house built-in flip down tables in two expandable depths. Integrated in the side panels of the truck bed, each table can serve as a workbench with multi-functional power sources in close proximity.
On the side of the vehicle, there is a hidden step to allow quick and easy access to the truck bed. Underneath this step is a flexible storage area for items such as a first-aid kit, cooler for snacks and drinks, lockable laptop storage and more. This space-efficient feature is only possible due to Canoo’s ultra-flat platform.
Modular bed
The truck bed is modular, thanks to Canoo’s space divider system designed to keep items separate and secure. The bed wall also incorporates modular wheel chocks to secure bikes and configurable tie-downs for ladders, large equipment and other materials.
The pick-up truck can double as a mobile powerplant too. Electrical power can be supplied all day for tools and devices, ideal for situations like natural disasters where power generating infrastructure might be non-functioning. The draw of electricity is said to have around 10% impact on vehicle range.
The third brake light can double as an overhead light to illuminate the cargo bed at night. There’s also perimeter lighting on all sides of the bed wall for added visibility around the vehicle.
Customers can add roof racks which are in variable sizes for extra cargo storage when needed. The roof rack is easily accessible from the flatbed or via the sidestep. Alternatively, Canoo has a variety of camper shells to fit onto the bed for covered and enclosed accommodations while travelling around.
Powertrain configurations
The truck’s powertrain can generate pp to 600 hp/746 Nm torque with two electric motors. The battery pack is claimed to be able to currently provide a range of 320+ kms although this is likely to change as battery technology continues to advance.
How big is it?
In standard form, the pick-up truck is 4677 mm long, which makes it shorter than a Ford Ranger (double cab) which has a length of 5426 mm. However, when the bed is extended, the overall length will be similar. So if the extended bed is not needed, the truck is about the same length as a Honda Civic, which would make it convenient to drive around in urban conditions.
While it is not as wide as a Ford Ranger Raptor, it is a bit wider than the average Japanese pick-up truck with an overall width of 1980 mm (bodywork). It sits on a wheelbase of 2850 mm and the roof of the cab is at 1920 mm with 18-inch wheels.
