Chinese automotive manufacturer Geely has unveiled its new electric utility vehicle, the Riddara RD6, in New Zealand at a competitive price of NZ$69,990 (approximately A$63,350) before on-road costs. This pricing positions the RD6 on par with the popular BYD Shark 6 plug-in hybrid ute and reflects Geely’s strategy to capture a share of the growing electric vehicle market. The first customer deliveries are scheduled to begin in September.
The Riddara RD6 is set to enter international markets, including Australia, where it will be marketed under the Riddara name instead of its original Radar designation due to a trademark dispute. Notably, the RD6’s pricing aligns closely with that of the mid-range Ford Ranger XLT dual-cab 4×4, which indicates Geely’s intent to offer a compelling alternative in the utility vehicle segment.
Competitive Edge in the Electric Market
Should the RD6 maintain a similar price point in Australia, it will become the most affordable all-electric utility vehicle available, surpassing the LDV eT60, which was the first electric ute introduced in 2022 at a starting price of $92,990 before on-road costs. The impending launch of the four-wheel drive LDV eTerron 9 and other electric dual-cab 4×4 options, such as the Isuzu D-Max EV, indicates a rapidly evolving market.
The New Zealand model features a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain that delivers an impressive total system output of 315kW, enabling a swift acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds. It is equipped with a 73kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, claiming a WLTP range of approximately 360 km. While single-motor versions and additional battery options, including smaller LFP batteries and larger nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries of up to 100kWh, are available in other markets, New Zealand’s RD6 will be offered exclusively in a high-spec model variant.
Specifications and Market Context
The RD6’s design diverges from traditional utility vehicles, as it utilizes a car-like monocoque platform rather than a more rugged ladder frame. This design choice contributes to a maximum payload capacity of 1,030 kg and a braked towing capacity of 3,000 kg. Although these figures are lower than those of Australia’s leading diesel utes, they exceed the capabilities of the BYD Shark 6.
Geely has established the Riddara name in Australia as of March 2023, and the RD6 will complement the existing portfolio of Geely models in the region, including the Geely EX5 mid-size electric SUV and the Starray EM-i mid-size plug-in hybrid SUV. In New Zealand, these vehicles are distributed by the Giltrap Group under its new NordEast division, showcasing Geely’s broader strategy to expand its presence in the electric vehicle market.
As the automotive industry evolves, the Riddara RD6 represents a significant step for Geely, positioning itself competitively against established players and highlighting the growing appeal of electric utility vehicles. The RD6’s successful launch may influence market dynamics, particularly as consumer preferences shift towards more sustainable transportation options.
