The Maxus T90 EV stands out as South Africa’s first fully electric double-cab pickup, offering a compelling alternative for industries like mining and private security.
The Maxus T90 EV is a practical, zero-emissions choice, boasting a range of 354 km, rear-wheel drive, and a one-ton payload. While it does not offer the extended driving range or off-road prowess of a 4×4 diesel bakkie, it might just find its niche in specific applications.
Performance and range
Powered by a 130 kW electric motor delivering 310 Nm of torque, the Maxus T90 EV delivers sufficient power. The single-speed automatic transmission makes driving smooth, while the instant torque of the electric motor adds fun to the experience.
The vehicle I drove was governed to a top speed of 120 km/h, which helps to preserve the battery’s charge. I suspect that a small and simple change to the programming of the electronic management system would easily remove that limit.
On the open road, I found the range dropped slightly to 300 km, but it’s still a solid performance for a bakkie in this category. For charging, the 88,6 kWh battery can go from 20 percent to 80 percent in 45 minutes using a DC fast charger, adding 100 km of range in just 10 minutes—a handy feature for long workdays.
Energy cost
It is true that some manufacturers wildly overstate the driving range of their products, it’s not the case with the Maxus T90 EV. In my experience, upwards of 340 km per charge was entirely possible in stop-start driving, although the range dropped when I took to the open road.
To charge the battery to 80 kWh with Eskom power – at a rate of R3,30 per kWh – will cost R264. If that gives you 300 km of range, the T90 EV’s ‘fuel’ cost is 88 cents per kilometre. If it’s used by an enterprise that generates its own electricity, that per kilometre cost drops to zero.
Maxus also offers smaller commercial vehicles that yield more kilometres per kilowatt hour.
Practicality
The Maxus T90 EV’s ability to tow up to 1 500 kg and carry a payload of up to 1 000 kg means it’s versatile enough for most jobs. However, its ground clearance of 187 mm could be a limiting factor for some off-road conditions or uneven terrain, given that the electric motor is positioned low on the rear axle. For everyday work applications, especially in urban or rural settings, the T90 EV excels, but you may need to think twice if you plan to take it into harsher off-road environments.
Interior and features
Maxus has equipped the T90 EV with a host of features designed to make daily driving comfortable. The 10,25” touchscreen supports Apple CarPlay and screen mirroring for Android, although it lacks Android Auto compatibility.
This could be a drawback for some, but the workaround worked well enough so I was used to it in no time. Two USB ports, a 12V plug point, and 220V sockets offer comprehensive and versatile connectivity.
The seats are upholstered in artificial leather, which feels durable and comfortable. The front seats are electrically adjustable for ease of use. The cabin is spacious, and getting in and out is easy, thanks to the well-positioned grab handles and running boards.
Safety
Maxus did not skimp on safety features, with six airbags, an Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and Rollover Mitigation all included. The Hill Descent Control feature will prove useful in steeper, more rugged terrains, though the limited ground clearance makes this feature less relevant for extreme off-roading. Reinforced steel in the body structure also adds peace of mind, particularly for industries where vehicle collisions are a risk.
Design and build quality
Visually, the Maxus T90 EV holds its own with a chrome-plated grille that attracts attention. The muscular wheel arches and striking taillights give it a bold appearance, and it’s clear Maxus aimed to combine practicality with style.
Inside, the quality of materials is decent, and the cabin feels well-constructed, though it’s not at the premium level of some competitors. Its solid build quality meant there were no squeaks or rattles.
Final thoughts and rating
The Maxus T90 EV offers a balanced combination of practicality, range, and features. While it will not suit customers needing dedicated off-road capability or the load volume of a single-cab pickup, it shines in environments where efficiency, passenger capacity, and the absence of tailpipe emissions are important. It’s a bold step forward in the evolution of utility vehicles in South Africa.
The Maxus T90 EV sells for R1 100 000. It scores 3 out of 5.
3.0 out of 5.0 stars
