Kandi America, the US branch of China-based Kandi Technologies Group, has unveiled the K32, an off-road EV that might look like a pickup but is actually a non-street-legal UTV. This is Kandi’s third model to be available in the US, after the budget-friendly K23 and K27 that were introduced in 2020.
From the outside, the Kandi K32 could be mistaken for a compact pickup thanks to the dual-cab design, the high ground clearance, the pronounced fenders, and the large rear bed. In fact, with a length of 214 inches (5,436 mm), it is longer than a Ford Ranger, which probably served as an inspiration for the Chinese vehicle’s grille and headlights.
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The 17-inch wheels are shod in chunky 265/65/R17 tires, while a series of accessories like fake hood scoops, roof-mounted lights, and fender extensions are available.
Despite the rugged looks, the K32 is classified as an Off-Road UTV limiting its use for recreational activities off the beaten track. Its powertrain consists of dual electric motors producing a combined 28 hp (21 kW / 29 PS) which are channeled to all four wheels. This kind of power is good for a 65 mph (105 km/h) top speed, while Kandi didn’t provide any acceleration figures.
The K32 is available in two variants, the base-spec with a 20.7 kWh battery allowing a 60-mile (97 km) range, and the long-range with a larger 50 kWh battery offering a 150-mile (241 km) range. According to the official website, a full charge takes 7.5 hours from a 240V/32A port. The curb weight of 4,089 lbs (1,855 kg) sounds quite heavy for such a vehicle, with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 5,357 lbs (2,430 kg) limiting the cargo-carrying capabilities.
Inside there is enough room for up to four adults. The materials on the dashboard look pretty basic, but the center console is dominated by a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen, combined with a digital instrument cluster. Equipment includes two airbags, a rearview camera, a battery protection system, ABS and EBD.
The base-spec K32 starts from $27,699 in the US before any state incentives are applied, while the long-range variant starts from $34,499. Kandi America is offering a three-year or 36k-mile basic coverage warranty, plus five years or 30k-mile warranty for the lithium-ion battery. The K32 will be sold through the Powersports dealer network, with the first deliveries scheduled for early 2022.
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