Maxus T90 EV: The UK’s First Electric Pickup Truck
Pickups have always been the stronghold of diesel engines. Known for their towing muscle, payload capacity, and rugged off-road ability, they’ve traditionally resisted electrification. That resistance ended when Maxus, a brand under SAIC Motor, launched the T90 EV—the UK’s first fully electric pickup truck.
This bold release is more than just another vehicle launch. It’s a statement: even the toughest workhorses are joining the electric revolution. While rivals like Ford, Toyota, and Isuzu are still preparing their EV pickups, Maxus has stolen a march by putting a real product on UK roads.
The Maxus T90 EV isn’t perfect, but it’s pioneering. For businesses, contractors, and eco-conscious drivers, it offers a glimpse of what the future of pickups looks like.
Design and Practicality
At first glance, the Maxus T90 EV looks like a conventional pickup. It shares much of its design DNA with Maxus’ combustion-engine models, but under the skin it’s powered by an 88.5 kWh battery and an electric motor.
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Double cab layout: Seating for five, making it practical for both work crews and families.
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Payload: 1,000 kg, which qualifies it for UK tax benefits and keeps it competitive with diesel rivals.
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Load bay: Not the largest in the segment, but sufficient for light commercial use.
For urban operators, the T90 EV’s biggest advantage is financial: it avoids congestion charges and low-emission zone fees. That alone can save businesses thousands of pounds annually.
Towing Capabilities
Towing is often the deal-breaker for pickup buyers.
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Unbraked towing capacity: 750 kg, enough for small trailers or light loads.
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Braked towing capacity: More limited than diesel rivals, making it unsuitable for heavy-duty hauling like horse boxes or plant machinery.
This is where the Maxus T90 EV shows its compromise. It’s not designed for those who regularly tow at the upper limits. Instead, it’s aimed at urban and light commercial users who rarely exceed modest towing needs.
Specifications
| Feature | Maxus T90 EV |
|---|---|
| Battery | 88.5 kWh |
| Range | ~220 miles WLTP |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive |
| Payload | 1,000 kg |
| Towing | 750 kg unbraked |
| Charging | 80 kW DC rapid charging |
| Interior | Modern infotainment, spacious double cab |
| Safety | Standard ADAS features |
Driving Experience
The Maxus T90 EV delivers a driving experience very different from diesel pickups.
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On-road: Smooth, quiet, and responsive thanks to instant torque. Acceleration feels brisk compared to diesel rivals.
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Off-road: Limited by rear-wheel drive. Without 4x4 capability, it’s not suited to rugged terrain or muddy worksites.
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Cabin: Comfortable and modern, with infotainment and safety tech. It’s not as premium as a Ford Ranger Wildtrak, but it’s functional and well-equipped.
For city driving, the Maxus T90 EV shines. The absence of engine noise and the ease of electric torque make it relaxing and efficient.
Charging and Range
Range anxiety is often the biggest concern for EV buyers.
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Range: Around 220 miles WLTP, which is competitive for an EV pickup.
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Charging: Supports 80 kW DC rapid charging, allowing a 20–80% top-up in about 45 minutes.
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Fleet practicality: Overnight charging at depots makes it easy for businesses to keep vehicles ready for daily use.
For urban fleets, the range is more than sufficient. For rural contractors covering long distances, it may feel limiting compared to diesel pickups.
Market Position & Value 💰
The Maxus T90 EV is priced higher than diesel pickups, reflecting its electric drivetrain. But buyers benefit from:
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Lower running costs: Electricity is cheaper than diesel per mile.
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Tax incentives: EVs enjoy reduced company car tax and exemptions from urban fees.
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Fleet appeal: Businesses operating in cities can save significantly on operating costs.
Warranty and after-sales support are competitive, though Maxus’ dealer network is smaller than Ford or Toyota.
Strengths vs. Weaknesses
Strengths:
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First mover advantage in the UK EV pickup market.
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Zero emissions, avoiding urban fees.
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Decent payload capacity (1,000 kg).
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Smooth, quiet driving experience.
Weaknesses:
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Limited towing compared to diesel rivals.
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Rear-wheel drive only, restricting off-road use.
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Higher upfront cost.
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Smaller dealer network.
Comparison with Diesel Rivals 🔍
To understand the Maxus T90 EV’s place in the market, it’s worth comparing it to established diesel pickups.
| Model | Powertrain | Towing Capacity | Payload | Range/Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maxus T90 EV | Electric (88.5 kWh) | 750 kg unbraked | 1,000 kg | 220 miles WLTP |
| Ford Ranger | 2.0L Diesel | 3,500 kg | 1,000+ kg | ~30 mpg |
| Toyota Hilux | 2.8L Diesel | 3,500 kg | 1,000+ kg | ~32 mpg |
Clearly, the T90 EV can’t match diesel rivals for towing or off-road ability. But it offers something they don’t: zero emissions and exemption from urban fees.
Lifestyle Positioning 🌍
The Maxus T90 EV isn’t just a work truck—it’s also a lifestyle vehicle.
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Urban families: Double cab layout makes it practical for school runs and weekend trips.
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Eco-conscious buyers: Zero emissions align with sustainability goals.
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Fleet operators: Lower running costs and urban exemptions make it financially attractive.
It’s not the truck for farmers hauling livestock, but it’s perfect for city-based contractors, delivery services, and businesses that want to project a green image.
The Future of Electric Pickups
The Maxus T90 EV is a trailblazer, but it won’t be alone for long. Rivals are preparing their own EV pickups:
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Ford F-150 Lightning (currently US-only).
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Toyota Hilux EV concept (in development).
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Isuzu D-Max EV (rumored for Europe).
Maxus has the advantage of being first to market in the UK. That gives it a unique selling point, even if rivals eventually surpass it in capability.
The Maxus T90 EV is a landmark vehicle: the UK’s first fully electric pickup truck. While it doesn’t match diesel rivals in towing or off-road ability, it offers a compelling solution for businesses and drivers who prioritize sustainability, urban practicality, and lower running costs.
For contractors working in cities, fleet operators navigating low-emission zones, or eco-conscious buyers seeking a pickup that breaks the mold, the T90 EV is a pioneering choice.
It may not be perfect, but it signals the future: even the toughest pickup trucks are joining the electric revolution.