LDV eT60 EV Ute: A Pioneer in Electric Utility Vehicles
Welcome to the world of electric utility vehicles with the LDV eT60 EV ute. As a pioneer in its class, this vehicle holds the distinction of being New Zealand’s first electric ute. In this article, we will delve into the intriguing features, performance, and practicality of the LDV eT60. Join me, Emily Johnson, as we explore the journey of this electric workhorse and discover why it stands out in the market.
The LDV eT60: New Zealand’s First Electric Ute
The LDV eT60 holds the distinction of being New Zealand’s first electric ute, making it a trailblazer in the realm of electric utility vehicles. With its launch coinciding with the buzz around Clean Car fees for diesel double-cabs, the eT60 entered the market as an alternative for eco-conscious individuals.
Despite being a work in progress and nearing the end of its model life, the LDV eT60 offers an enticing proposition. It is a sub-$50k EV ute conversion backed by the manufacturer, LDV, and comes with an 8-year battery warranty. Let’s dive deeper into the features and performance of this pioneering electric vehicle.
Design and Features: A Closer Look
The LDV eT60 is a factory conversion of the diesel T60, incorporating BEV power. While the exterior design retains the rugged appeal of a traditional ute, the eT60 stands out with its electric motor and battery pack located underneath the vehicle.
Inside the cabin, the LDV eT60 offers a tidy and modern aesthetic, although it features hard materials. The dashboard houses a 10.25-inch digital infotainment screen, providing essential information to the driver. However, it lacks detailed electric operation indicators, leaving room for improvement in terms of user experience.
Performance and Range: Smooth and Efficient
While the LDV eT60 may not offer blistering acceleration, it provides a decently smooth driving experience. Its electric powertrain delivers a modest 130kW/310Nm, making it suitable for everyday commuting and light-duty tasks.
Equipped with a large 89kWh battery, the eT60 boasts an impressive range. The WLTP rating indicates a range of 325km, but real-world testing has shown it to exceed 400km in certain conditions. This range is more than sufficient for most urban and suburban driving needs.
Practicality and Affordability: Is It Worth It?
As a utility vehicle, the LDV eT60 offers practical features such as a lined tray and standard equipment like a reversing camera and parking sensors. However, it is important to note that the payload is limited to 750kg, and towing capacity is 1500kg, which may affect its usability for certain tasks.
In terms of affordability, the LDV eT60 presents an attractive proposition. With a discounted price of $49,975 (including the Clean Car Discount), it offers a fully warrantied brand-new ute at a sub-$50k price point. This makes it an appealing option for individuals and small businesses looking to save on fuel costs and make a statement about sustainability.