A new Australian startup, by the name of Red Automotive Technologies, is planning to develop and release an off-road electric SUV with a single-charge range of +200 kilometers, according to recent reports.
The model is expected to retail for around $85,000 if things go according to plan (if the needed funding is obtained, and things go forward in a financially sustainable way). So, that would be roughly in the same price range as the Tesla Model X.
The startup is reportedly aiming to achieve production numbers of up to 75,000 units a year within 10 years — with production reportedly occurring in Australia itself. Other possible sales markets noted by company reps include the Middle East, Europe, and the US.
Carsales.com.au provides more:
It would eventually build a range of vehicles with prices extending beyond $200,000. The premium positioning is driven by the increased profit potential in that part of the market.
…The SUV is the brainchild of Adelaide engineer Paul van de Loo, who has spun Red out of his engineering design consultancy, Applidyne. Van de Loo is a graduate of Adelaide University who went on to gain a masters degree in mechanical engineering at Stanford University before forming Applidyne. It has been in business for 22 years designing products and systems for the defence, consumer goods, mining and automotive industries.
Van de Loo has recruited former GM Holden product planning chief and director and EV expert Ian McCleave to the advisory board of Red. The SUV would be a based on a clean-sheet ‘skateboard’ architecture, use four in-wheel motors, a patented two-speed transmission that would enable ultra-low and ultra-high speeds, innovative suspension design including semi-active roll and articulation control and vehicle-to-home interactions such as energy generation and supply.
Targeted specs for the potential offering include: a 0-100 kilometers/hour acceleration of under 4 seconds, a top speed of around 250 kilometers/hour, an adjustable ride height suspension “with 375 mm of ground clearance and 450 mm of wheel travel, and a 3500 kg braked towing capacity.” The model will reportedly feature a petrol or diesel range extender to boost range up to 1200 kilometers or more.
(Tip of the hat to “Telepilot” on the Tesla Motors Club forum.)