MIAS 2024: Foton brings EV versions of Thunder, Transvan HR Cargo

Foton Motor Philippines Inc (FMPI) wowed everyone when they unveiled the Tunland V7 and V9 diesel-hybrid pickup trucks. Not only does it mark the brand’s entry into the electrified age, but it also signals Foton joining the full-size pickup truck market.

With their huge size, mild-hybrid-assisted turbo-diesel engines, and feature-packed interiors, both the Tunland V7 and V9 trucks are sure to attract buyers. But that doesn’t mean those were the only vehicles that Foton brought at this year’s Manila International Auto Show (MIAS).

Also revealed at the SMX Convention Center section of the MIAS 2024 are several electric vehicles (EVs). That’s right, the brand more known for turbo-diesel commercial vehicles is now also offering zero-emissions workhorses.

Let’s start with the Thunder EV, an all-electric version of Foton’s popular midsize pickup. On the outside, it looks the same as any regular Thunder pickup truck. However, it doesn’t have an Aucan turbo-diesel engine. Instead, it gets an electric powertrain that’s powered by an 88.55 kWh battery pack. When it comes to recharging, the vehicle supports fast DC charging and is rated to be fully charged in as little as 1.5 hours.

No output figures were mentioned but Foton did say it can cover up to 536 km on a full charge. In addition, it has a standard load capacity of 915 kg. Since the hardware is placed in the chassis, its bed size wasn’t affected as it still measures 1520mm long, 1580mm wide, and 440mm tall. And despite being a utilitarian EV, it gets the same level of features as its diesel-powered brethren like cruise control, touchscreen infotainment with Bluetooth, air-conditioning, and selectable drive modes (Sports and Eco).

The other fully electric Foton is the Transvan HR Cargo EV. From its namesake, it’s the zero-emissions powertrain variant of the van. This one has a single electric motor that doles out a maximum power of 115 PS and 290 Nm of torque. Its battery is rated for 50.23 kW which gives it a range of up to 195 km only.

While it may not be much, do remember that it’s more for hauling cargo rather than ferrying passengers. However, it still comes with a 100 km/h top speed, 169mm of ground clearance, a cargo volume of 8 cubic meters, and a payload capacity of 1,100 kg.

Size-wise, the Transvan HR Cargo EV measures 5320mm long, 1695mm wide, 2280mm tall, and has a 3050mm wheelbase. Its rear cargo dimension, meanwhile, measures 3480mm long, 1541mm wide, and 1585mm tall.

The exact pricing of the two Foton EVs has yet to be revealed. However, an insider told us that the Transvan HR Cargo EV has an indicative price of around PHP 1.990 million. On the other hand, the Thunder EV will be priced around PHP 2.7 to PHP 2.8 million.