12-05-2025
China's Riddara RD6 to become 1st double-cab EV bakkie in SA
In almost complete silence, Geely's Riddara sub-brand will become the first to offer an all-electric (EV) double-cab bakkie in the South African market, with the introduction of the RD6.
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Enviro Automotive has announced that it will be bringing the Riddara RD6 4×4 Double Cab into South Africa, which will become the first fully electric 4×4 bakkie in the country. Built by the Geely Auto Group on a Volvo-derived platform, the Riddara RD6 will make history in South Africa, becoming the first zero-emissions powertrain employed in a commercially sold double-cab bakkie.
The model is capable of dispatching the 0–100km/h sprint in just 4.5 seconds, while the automaker claims it still retains the brawn and functionality of a traditional bakkie, although it is worth noting that this isn't founded on a ladder frame construction. Nonetheless, it is backed by a five-year/150 000km vehicle warranty and eight-year/200 000km battery warranty, with Enviro Automotive claiming real-world battery life is expected to stretch even further than that.
Power in the 4×4 is generated courtesy of a 315kW dual-motor powertrain, which also delivers 595N.m and can hit a top speed of 190km/h. All of this is superficial for prospective bakkie buyers, the bed is capable of swallowing 1 200l or carrying a one-tonne payload while the bakkie can tow a maximum three tonnes.
Enviro Automotive adds that the Riddara RD6 itself, in both 4×4 and 4×2 guises, promises to blur the line between performance vehicle and utility bakkie and break away from ladder-frame traditions for added driving smoothness and agility.
'The Riddara 4×4 electric bakkie is not just a new model – it's a statement,' says Francois Malan, head of sales at Enviro Automotive. 'Our partnership with Turner Morris ensures these vehicles aren't just technological showcases, but practical tools ready for the realities of African roads and businesses.'
The bakkie will be displayed for the first time at the Nampo Harvest Day this week, alongside the business-oriented SRM T3 EV bakkie.
Related: Enviro Automotive's All-Electric SRM T3 Bakkie Lands in SA
Enviro Automotive adds that its EV lineup will see pricing reductions, courtesy of maturing battery tech and favourable trade conditions. This means that business-oriented panel vans like the DFSK EC35 panel van will be even more compelling for prospective buyers, according to the automaker. Enviro Automotive says that the model will see a R105 000 reduction during a current promotion, which also makes it the most affordable commercial EV in the country for now.
Related: Road Test: Jetour X70 Plus 1.5T Deluxe
In addition to this, Enviro Automotive has announced its strategic partnership with Turner Morris and hopes this collaboration will increase their footprint, with a combined 30+ outlets and workshops throughout South Africa.
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The post China's Riddara RD6 Will Become First Double Cab EV Bakkie in SA appeared first on CAR Magazine.
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