A new take on the electric bakkie
Geely Auto South Africa officially introduced the Riddara to the local market at last week’s Festival of Motoring, with the RD6 becoming the first model from Geely Auto Group’s dedicated new-energy bakkie brand to arrive in South Africa.
Rather than adapting an existing diesel bakkie platform for electric power, the RD6 was developed from the outset as a new-energy bakkie. It combines an electric drivetrain and SUV-like cabin with the load-carrying and towing ability expected from a bakkie.
Built on a dedicated platform
The RD6 is based on Geely’s M.A.P Platform, developed from the company’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA). It was designed specifically to combine passenger-vehicle refinement with bakkie capability.
The result is a relatively low centre of gravity, instant electric torque and a quiet cabin, while retaining the structural strength required for carrying and towing.
The range comprises three derivatives, with power outputs ranging from 180kW to 315kW.
At the top of the line is the Apex RD6 4WD, which produces 315kW and 595Nm from its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. Geely claims a 0–100km/h time of 4.5 seconds under ideal conditions with Highway Terrain tyres.
The 4WD system can switch between two- and four-wheel drive in as little as 20 milliseconds, with torque distribution adjusted according to available traction.
The 4WD models also get Economy, Comfort, Sport, Sand, Mud and Off-road driving modes.
With 225mm of ground clearance and a claimed 815mm wading depth, the RD6 has more than enough specification to suggest that its off-road ambitions extend beyond the occasional gravel road.
The flagship can carry up to 1 030kg and tow up to 3 000kg.
Battery and range
The two 4WD derivatives are fitted with a 73kWh battery, while the Aspire Econ 2WD uses a 63kWh unit. Claimed NEDC ranges are 424km for the Apex RD6 4WD, 390km for the Aspire Econ 4WD and 369km for the Aspire Econ 2WD. DC fast charging at up to 110kW is supported.
The RD6 also features 6kW vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, allowing electrical equipment and appliances to be powered directly from the vehicle.
Protection against the elements comes in the form of an IP67-rated high-voltage electrical system and an IP68-rated power battery.
A more refined cabin
Geely has taken a decidedly passenger-car approach to the RD6’s interior. The cabin features an SUV-like driving position and a flat floor, with the latter creating additional space for rear passengers.
The Apex is equipped with a 14.6-inch infotainment display, 10.2-inch digital driver display, wireless smartphone charging and an eight-speaker audio system. It also gets a panoramic roof, leather upholstery and ventilated front seats.
Storage space includes 48 litres beneath the rear seats and a 70-litre front luggage compartment.
Styling breaks with tradition
The RD6 also looks considerably different from the conventional bakkie formula.
Its broad, upright stance is combined with clean surfacing, distinctive LED lighting and an integrated cargo bed, giving it a more SUV-inspired appearance.
At 5 260mm long, 1 900mm wide and 1 880mm high, with a 3 120mm wheelbase, it is a substantial vehicle. The claimed turning radius is 6.6m.
The Aspire is available in black, white and silver, with a black interior. Apex buyers have a wider choice of exterior colours, including green, blue, silver, grey and white, while the interior can be specified in green, tan or refined black.
A different electric bakkie proposition
Rather than simply offering an electric alternative to an established diesel bakkie, Riddara has developed the vehicle around its new-energy architecture from the beginning.
That gives it the opportunity to make full use of the characteristics of an electric drivetrain while retaining the practical attributes that have made bakkies such a dominant part of the South African motoring landscape.
The combination of up to 315kW and 595Nm, a 1 030kg payload, 3 000kg towing capacity and four-wheel-drive capability makes the RD6 an interesting addition to the growing selection of electric bakkies available locally.
Model line-up & pricing
- Aspire Econ 2WD: R611 900
- Aspire Econ 4WD: R681 900
- Apex RD6 4WD: R781 900
*All models are sold with a 6-year/150 000km vehicle warranty, 8-year/200 000km battery warranty, 6-year/120 000km service plan and 5-year unlimited roadside assistance. For the first 200 units, the vehicle warranty is extended by an additional year and 50 000km, while the service plan gains another year and 20 000km.
