Canoo shows off exterior features of new electric pick-up
The new electric pick-up from Canoo is a beefed-up version of its lifestyle vehicle with added functionality
Canoo has unveiled its new all-electric pick-up truck at a virtual event hosted by the Motor Press Guild and Automobility LA. It is the third vehicle based on the company’s EV architecture, sitting alongside the Canoo ’lifestyle vehicle’ and ’multi-purpose delivery vehicle’.
From a glance, the pick-up looks very similar to the company’s pod-like lifestyle vehicle. It has the same rounded shape, and the same enormous windows. But there are some notable differences, including the protruding wheel arches, chunky bumpers, and, more obviously, the inclusion of the flat bed. It is clear the two models are siblings, with the pick-up boasting a beefed-up character to take on the great outdoors.
There is also more emphasis on functionality, with nearly every part of the pick-up fused with a useful feature. At the front, the body work folds out to act as a table or storage area when the vehicle is not in motion. Similarly, the sides of the pick-up feature tables that are built into the panels of the truck bed. Under these are two side steps with integrated storage compartments that slot into the truck.
The flatbed at the rear measures six feet in length but can be extended to eight feet. When it is extended, a second layer of tailgate doors can swivel out and act as a barrier, or the bed can be left open. There is also an in-built space divider system to keep items separate and secure, as well as various ties and wheel chocks.
Other features include a multi-port plug on the side of the truck, which supposedly will have as little as 10% impact on vehicle range when in used all day for tools and devices. Different sizes for the roof rack are available to choose from, and the entire flat bed is lit by the third brake light.
Canoo says it has designed the pick-up to be “the most cab-forward and space efficient on the market.” The two images currently published of the interior certainly seem to back this point up. A large, flat and open dash area includes a sweeping ledge that wraps around the front passengers, with plenty of space to store items. The base of rectangular steering wheel is visible, extending out from the front and almost highlighting the mechanical features to emphasise functionality.
All surfaces are seemingly made of hard-wearing plastics, with some linear patterns and perforations bringing a subtle touch of detail here and there, while the roof is cladded in fabric. There are some giant storage compartments on the doors, and cupholders at either end of the dash.
More information will be published closer to production, with deliveries expected to begin early in 2023.
The electric pick-up truck market is hotting up. Car Design News recently published an in-depth look at GMC’s Hummer EV, while deliveries of Rivian’s R1T are due to start in June 2021 and Tesla’s Cybertruck in 2022.