Electric LDV ute spotted testing in NZ ahead of potential launch

LDV’s second stab at a fully electric double-cab ute has been spotted out and about in Auckland, with the brand still yet to formally confirm the model for our market.

The eTerron 9 is the pure plug-in version of the supersized diesel-powered Terron 9 that LDV launched last year, which it sells alongside its T60 Max and T60 Max Plus pick-ups. 

LDV New Zealand has long said that it is evaluating launching the eTerron 9 locally, with the brand’s claims dating back to 2024. But to date, it has yet to confirm the model for our market. 

The eTerron 9 combines a huge 102kWh battery with 430km of range on the WLTP cycle, with dual motors producing 325kW of power. Unlike its spiritual predecessor, the eT60, the eTerron 9 boasts a 3500kg braked towing capacity (at least in other markets) and all-wheel drive.

The timing of seeing an eTerron 9 out testing comes a few weeks after the eTerron 9’s platform-sharing cousin, the MG U9 EV, was confirmed as being added to Australia’s new-vehicle compliance database, creating speculation that the model was being primed for launch.

MG New Zealand went on to confirm that the electric ute is “under consideration” for our market.

LDV’s first attempt at an electric ute Down Under had a tough time on sale. The eT60 was widely criticised for its underwhelming 325km claimed range, for only being offered with rear-wheel drive, its 1500kg towing capacity, and for a steep $79,990 asking price.

After eventually canning the model, LDV slashed its price to $56,990 — before the Clean Car Discount programme had even closed.

With diesel prices skyrocketing and with numerous plug-in utes now on the market, now may be the ideal moment for LDV to return to the segment. 

In the last 12 months, three plug-in hybrid utes have entered the market in the form of the Ford Ranger Hybrid, GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV, and BYD Shark 6. Geely has also launched the Riddara RD6, which is currently the only pure electric ute sold in New Zealand.