Nikola Badger electric pick-up revealed

Arizona-based Nikola Corporation has become the latest firm to announce a zero-emissions pick-up. The four-door, five-seat truck – which is called Badger – is unusual for two reasons.

Firstly, production will be handled by an existing manufacturer using its facilities. While this partner hasn’t been named yet, an exchange of knowledge seems likely.

Secondly, the Badger is going to be offered with a choice of either battery-electric (BEV) or hydrogen fuel cell (FCEV) powertrains.

Nikola Badger (2021 Rendering) Front Side

Specifications aren’t finalised, but Nikola is expecting the Badger’s electric motor (or motors) to provide continuous and peak outputs of 455 and 906 horsepower respectively (around 340 and 675 kW). The torque target is an impressive 980 lb/ft (1,328 Nm).

Thanks to a 160 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, range for the BEV version is claimed to be 300 miles (482 kilometres). With the added benefit of a 120 kW fuel cell, the FCEV model should double that figure.

Nikola Badger (2021 Rendering) SideNikola Badger (2021 Rendering) Interior

The Badger measures 5,900 mm (232.3”) from bumper to bumper. That’s virtually the same as a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab fitted with a short cargo bed, which is 5,885 mm (231.7”) long.

Although there’s no mention of anticipated payload, towing capacity is predicted to be at least 8,000 lbs (3,628 kg) with a gross combined weight rating of 18,000 lbs (8,164 kg).

Nikola Badger (2021 Rendering) DashboardNikola Badger (2021 Rendering) Rear Side

Commenting on the project’s rationale and objectives, company CEO Trevor Milton said, “Nikola has billions worth of technology in our semi-truck program, so why not build it into a pick-up truck? I have been working on this pick-up program for years and believe the market is now ready for something that can handle a full day’s worth of work without running out of energy.

“This electric truck can be used for work, weekend getaways, towing, off-roading or to hit the ski slopes without performance loss. No other electric pick-up can operate in these temperatures and conditions.”

The Badger is due to appear in prototype form at the Nikola World 2020 event in Phoenix later this year.

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