Foton Motor PH introduces country's premier EV light-duty truck

Foton Motor Philippines Inc. (FMPI) has launched the country’s premier electrified commercial vehicle.

The new Foton Tornado EV was revealed in time for the brand’s 16th anniversary celebration of doing business in the country. Per FMPI, the introduction of the vehicle expressed its intention of being at the forefront of electrified commercial vehicles.

"Foton Motor Philippines has always strived to be at the forefront of mobility solutions. We were the first Chinese automotive brand to break into the Top 10 in the Philippine market — way before other Chinese brands even entered the country. And now, we've rolled out yet another game-changer in the Foton Tornado EV," FMPI General Manager (GM) Levy Santos said.

Powering the Foton Tornado EV 4x2 is a permanent magnet synchronous motor that can deliver up to 164 horsepower and Newton-meters of torque, allowing the truck to accelerate from zero to 50 kilometers per hour (kph) in nine seconds and reach a top speed of 90 kph.

When fully charged, the vehicle can cover as much as 208 kilometers of road (based on Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure standards). Juicing up the vehicle can be done via AC (12 hours from 20 percent to full charge) or DC (two to four hours).  

The Foton Tornado EV measures 5,960 millimeters (mm) long, 1,925mm wide, and 2,260mm tall with a 3,360mm wheelbase, 6,000-kilogram (kg) gross vehicle weight, 3600kg-load mass as well as a 2,400kg curb weight.

The steepest hill that the truck can climb using maximum torque at the lowest gear is at 20 percent grade.

The stopping power of the Foton Tornado EV 4x2 comes from its traditional hydraulic brakes for ease of maintenance and repairs.

Comfort, convenience, and safety features include anti-brake lock system with electronic brakeforce distribution, air-conditioning system, multimedia (MP3/auxiliary/USB) audio system, adjustable steering wheel, power windows, central locking with remote key, reverse sensor, among others.  

"We're doubly excited that this state-of-the-art all-electric truck will be making its debut at our Foton’s Big Show, which has always been a favorite event of truck enthusiasts and users alike, generating record orders from small to large business entrepreneurs, year in and year out," Santos noted.

Further, the FMPI GM said that the brand’s aim is to shift Filipino businesses to achieving a zero-cost strategy on fuel, more efficient logistics, reduced operating costs, and increased environmental awareness, while enjoying accessible charging opportunities and excellent aftersales services.

The starting price of the Foton Tornado EV is at P3.6 million (cab and chassis).

Photos from Foton Motor Philippines

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