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You might not be familiar with the Maxus name, but it comes with considerable backing as part of the SAIC Motor Group from China - which also owns the MG brand. Maxus, the commercial vehicle division, already sells various vans and chassis cabs with diesel and electric power. Now, it is expanding its offering by introducing two new models in different market segments.
The only electric pick-up on the market
Not wanting to miss out on the increasing popularity of the sector, Maxus is adding a pick-up to its range in the shape the T90EV. Setting it apart from all other pick-ups currently on sale is that it is only available in fully-electric form. That should make it appealing to businesses and users that want to have the look and practicality of a pick-up but portray a greener image with zero local emissions.
The T90EV isn't a ground-up electric design as it's adapted from a combustion engined vehicle that isn't sold in Ireland. Like other pick-ups, it has chunky styling, featuring a large chrome grille with the Maxus name spelled out across it. Slim daytime running lights cap the main headlights on either side of the grille, emphasising the T90EV's broad stance.
Adapting an existing model means some compromise when it comes to packaging, namely the 88.5kWh battery that is fixed underneath the chassis. Due to this placement, ground clearance is limited and is less than that of most other pick-ups, which isn't ideal. On a more positive note, the Maxus has a peak DC-charging rate of 80kW, allowing it to make good use of rapid chargers by replenishing most of the charge capacity in around 45 minutes.
That battery size means a respectable range of 330 kilometres in WLTP conditions, and the battery feeds a 150kW (204hp) electric motor. However, the drive only goes to the rear wheels, limiting the off-road capabilities of the T90EV somewhat. That won't be much of an issue for some buyers, though one of the reasons that pick-ups have such popularity is for their ability to tackle challenging terrain.
On the inside is a modern-looking layout with a 10.25-inch touchscreen at the dashboard's centre. The native infotainment system is basic, but you can connect a smartphone via the USB port and run either Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. The cabin doesn't feel as robust as a Ford Ranger’s, mainly due to the materials used throughout. Some aspects appear basic, such as a multifunction steering wheel with controls on only one side and a primarily analogue instrument cluster.
On the road, the Maxus does have a rather stiff suspension setup, partly due to its ability to carry up to 1,000kg in the rear bed. Typically with pick-ups, when that load area is empty, the ride can feel hard and bouncy, and this is true of the T90EV, though it is more evident here than in some competitors.
While the electric motor has a maximum output of 204hp, the Maxus doesn't feel especially brisk. There is a choice of power modes available, including an Eco mode to help prolong driving range.
Or how about an electric MPV?
Another new area that Maxus is getting into is passenger vehicles. The Maxus Mifa 9 is a fully-electric large people carrier that is an ideal fit for any business that needs to transport customers in comfort. Better suited to commercial use rather than serving as a family car, it has a striking image with bold styling reflecting a vehicle that focuses on maximising interior space. The Mifa 9 is an alternative to other large electric people movers such as the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, Mercedes-Benz e-Vito Tourer and Opel Zafira-e Life.
Style might not be one of the Mifa 9's strong points, but this vehicle is more about transporting its passengers comfortably than wowing them with its exterior styling. The high roofline provides generous levels of headroom, and access to the rear seats comes via two large, electrically operated sliding doors. In the middle row are two luxurious chairs, which, depending on the specification grade, are akin to the type of seat one might expect to find in the business class section of an airplane. The third row is a bench seat arrangement and still has decent legroom.
There are almost no physical buttons inside, in a bid to make the Mifa 9 interior look as modern as possible. Instead, most of the car's systems and functions are controlled via the large touchscreen, with ventilation and temperature settings operated by a touch-sensitive bar underneath. Even though its design may be more about those in the rear, the driver isn't overlooked with a position that has plenty of adjustability and a largely unobstructed view outwards.
Power for the Mifa 9 comes from a large 90kWh battery for a WLTP driving range of between 430- and 440 kilometres, depending on vehicle specification. A 245hp electric motor provides ample performance and allows it to cruise comfortably at motorway speeds. Doing so for prolonged periods will reduce the overall range figure, though most cross-country trips can still be made on a single charge.
It is a large car, and you are aware of its weight when driving though it does feel planted on the move. The suspension does a thorough job of soaking up surface imperfections to benefit passenger comfort and makes it feel robustly built. Manoeuvring the Mifa 9 in urban confines is also aided by a 360-degree camera system. In many ways, it's an ideal vehicle for a business such as a hotel to shuttle guests around.
Maxus's new electric vehicle options demonstrate that the Chinese brand is serious about expanding its product offering in Ireland beyond the panel van segment. However, going electric remains an expensive option, with Mifa 9 pricing set to start at the €80,000 mark, while the T90EV will cost €71,484 including VAT.