eTerron 9 Overview
- Built on SAIC’s Maxus platform since 2024, marketed in Europe and Australia as Maxus eTerron 9 or LDV eTerron 9, respectively
- European debut: September 2024 at IAA Transportation in Hannover
Performance & Powertrain
- Dual-motor AWD variant delivers 325 kW (≈ 436 hp) with 125 kW front, 200 kW rear motors; 0–100 km/h in around 5.8 seconds
- Battery: 102 kWh LFP pack, WLTP range approx. 430 km, charges 20–80% in ~40 minutes via 115 kW DC fast charging
- Payload ~620 kg, braked towing capacity up to 3,500 kg, fielding practicality competitive with diesel utes
Design & Practical Features
- Measures 5,500 mm long, 1,997–2,005 mm wide, 1,860–1,874 mm tall, with 3,300 mm wheelbase—larger than local midsize utes like Ford Ranger or HiLux
- Load tray extends to 2.4 m by dropping rear bulkhead; also includes 236 L frunk under bonnet—useful for tools or camping gear
- Air suspension allows lowering the rear by up to 60 mm for easier loading and adjusts ride height at speed for better aero efficiency
- Six driving modes plus a custom mode let users configure suspension height, steering feel, regen, traction control, etc.
Cabin & Comfort (via Rivervale review)
- Offers a premium interior with spacious layout, modern infotainment screens, digital driver display, supportive leather seating, and excellent connectivity.
- Built for business and leisure use: quiet EV operation, regenerative braking, ample charging ports, and a functional layout that supports a full “workday” usage.
Off-Road Capability & Utility
- AWD with terrain-specific modes (e.g. Sand, Mud), air suspension, all-terrain tires aim to support light off-road scenarios—though detailed off-road test reviews remain limited.
- Payload limitations (620 kg) are modest compared to diesel utes but offset by robust towing and advanced features like V2L power output (2.2 kW cabin, 6.6 kW bed) .
🛠 Some Red Flags: Build Quality and Market Feedback
- Reports from users and earlier EV utes from Maxus (e.g. T90 EV) highlight issues: cheaply finished materials, poor insulation leading to cabin noise, low ground clearance, lack of cruise control, and glitches in tech usability.
- Reliability and dealer support could lag behind mature diesel models until the brand gains longer service history.
Summary: A True Game‑Changer?
| Attribute | Maxus/LDV eTerron 9 |
|---|---|
| Power & Performance | 325 kW AWD, 0–100 km/h ~5.8 s, instant torque |
| Range & Charging | 102 kWh LFP battery, ~430 km WLTP, 115 kW DC 20–80% in ~40 min |
| Utility | 620 kg payload; 3.5 t tow; 2.4 m load bed; frunk; adjustable air suspension |
| Comfort | Premium cabin, screens, massage seats, V2L power outlet |
| Off-Road Potential | Terrain modes, AWD, configurable suspension—but limited testing data |
| Weaknesses | Build quality concerns, conservative payload limits, brand support untested |
Final Verdict
The Maxus eTerron 9 is ambitious—a bold entry as Europe's first AWD electric pickup, combining SUV-level refinement, EV torque, great towing, and high-tech utility features. It's very compelling for fleet users or private drivers looking to shift away from diesel.
However, compared to diesel stalwarts like Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton, or Isuzu D-Max, it still lags in:
- Proven durability,
- Payload flexibility,
- Established servicing infrastructure.