New SsangYong Korando 2021 electric SUV to take on MG ZS EV

SsangYong’s first all-electric model, which is based on the Korando mid-size SUV, will hit global markets in the first half of next year, but its Australian introduction remains up in the air.

Built as a global vehicle, the project codenamed E100 will first launch in its home market of South Korea, and likely other parts of Asia, but SsangYong’s local division is yet to commit to the electric vehicle.

According to brand, it is “enthusiastic about the new vehicle and its potential for induction into the local portfolio”, but previous reports indicate SsangYong might wait until EVs have hit critical mass in Australia before rolling out the electric Korando.

The high cost of EV technologies was cited as a concern by SsangYong boss of export markets Daniel Rim, which could push the E100 towards the $50,000 mark.

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For reference, the Korando currently kicks off at $26,990 drive-away for the manual EX and tops out with the Ultimate Diesel at $39,990.

A circa-$50,000 pricetag would be competitive in the Australian market though, with the Hyundai Ioniq Electric ($48,970 before on-road costs), Nissan Leaf ($49,990 BOCs) and incoming MG ZS EV ($46,990 drive-away) all priced similarly.

However, the point of difference in SsangYong’s EV will be its size, offering an emissions-free powertrain in the body of a mid-size SUV puts its dimensions closer to the likes of a Mazda CX-5 or Toyota RAV4 than its full-electric potential price rivals.

Teaser images release by SsangYong show a closed off grille, slender headlights and Korean-market-specific front badge, but the model was previewed as far back as 2019 with a concept.

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Early details on the electric Korando indicate it will be underpinned by a 140kW electric motor driving the front wheels, as well as a 61.5kWh battery that should be good for around 400km of driving range.

However, whether the production version carries over this technology remains unclear.

Testing for the all-electric Korando was also carried out in Australia’s hot climate.