Today, electrified mobility isn’t limited to motorbikes, passenger cars, crossovers, and SUVs anymore. Recent technological advancements have expanded the segment to include pickup trucks, as well. Some automotive brands have capitalized on this innovation; one example is Radar, a sub-brand of Geely.
Radar is a relatively new player in the electrified automotive industry. Entering the global scene in 2022, right at the tail-end of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chinese brand is steadily making a name for itself in the fast-rising segment by introducing the RD6, an electrified pickup truck designed for those looking for a city-focused utility vehicle with an active lifestyle in mind. The good news is that Radar is now in the Philippines and is operating under the United Asia Automotive Group Inc. (UAAGI).
Two months after its local debut, UAAGI and Radar EV Pickup Philippines invited a group of motoring journalists to the R33 Drift Track in San Simon, Pampanga, to take a closer look and experience the capabilities of the RD6. We were among those given the chance to join the activity. There, we were greeted by the RD6 in its two variants, the RD6 EM-P plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) and the RD6 Econ full-EV.
After the usual opening program pleasantries, we were briefed on the day’s activities, designed to challenge not only the vehicles but also the drivers. These include the Acceleration and Braking challenge, the Slalom and Cornering, the Speed Bumps, and the Slow-Braking and Turning Radius challenge. Although the activity lasted only half a day, organizers were able to fit everything into the tight schedule.
Participants were assigned to a vehicle with a driving instructor who provided guidance for the challenges ahead. Autocar Philippines was listed to experience the RD6 EM-P. Because this author is not physically capable of operating a motor vehicle, the next best option was to ride along with a fellow participant and experience the RD6 as a backseat passenger.
First impressions
Looking at the RD6 EM-P from the outside, I noticed the sleek styling. It’s like a compact crossover role-playing as a pickup. The front end’s got that sharp look, highlighting the aerodynamic aspect due to the lack of a huge grille. In profile, the RD6 retains the basic muscular design of a pickup, albeit in a rather smaller body. The rear end, meanwhile, flaunts a car-like design, with the tail gate garnish that links the horizontal taillights together to form a smooth visual flow.
Inside, the RD6 offers a car-like cabin, featuring brown and black leather motif with red stitching that evoke an upmarket look and feel. I’m quite surprised that the backseat legroom was spacious enough to fit in a plus-size person like me. I was seated at the right, in front of the driving instructor, and he didn’t adjust his seat at all. During our session, we weren’t able to tinker the 14.6-inch floating center touch screen display all that much, as the tasks were focused on experiencing how the vehicle drives. But I must say that the head unit completes the stylish vibe of the cabin, it wasn’t out of place in terms of interior design.
Acceleration and Braking
This challenge is designed to highlight the RD6 EM-P’s torque and power. On paper, its 1.5-liter turbocharged engine delivers 156 hp and 252 Nm of torque, while its two onboard electric motors churn out a combined output of 463 hp and 659 Nm, all controlled by a dedicated hybrid transmission and 4WD.
In practice, such as this particular challenge, the powertrain allowed the RD6 EM-P to bolt out of the starting line with instant torque, which was strongly felt at the back as the vehicle lurched forward. Accelerating from 0 to 90 km/h and braking to a stop felt brisk and smooth with less to no lag. I noticed that the brakes delivered a quick response without locking the tires, thanks to its anti-lock braking system (ABS) and hydraulic brake assist, which helped the driver maintain control.
Slalom and Cornering
We then moved on to the next challenge, which tested the RD6’s agility. Here, the vehicle’s unibody chassis was put to good use. A unibody or monocoque chassis is most common in passenger cars and crossovers. This gives the RD6 a smaller appearance vs. most models in its class. As we navigated that slalom course, the driver pointed out the vehicle’s car-like handling and response – light, nimble, and with minimal body roll coming out of the turns. He was instructed to maintain a 30 km/h speed and not apply the brakes during the entire slalom section. Because of its lightweight construction, the RD6 performed gracefully around the pylons.
At the back, I experienced fewer physical forces that would otherwise make me feel uncomfortable despite my seat belt being securely fastened. Note that the RD6 wasn’t meant to be driven like a racecar through quick turns, but if the situation calls for defensive driving in an emergency, the vehicle is up to the challenge.
Speed Bumps
We easily breezed through this section, which highlighted the RD6’s ride comfort and suspension performance. The driver was tasked to navigate this course with gradual acceleration over two sets of speed bumps. Overall, the RD6 wasn’t much of a challenge, as we completed it in no time. As I’ve observed, the ride wasn’t harsh at all. The front McPherson and rear multi-link independent suspension systems helped dampen the otherwise bumpy ride commonly felt in most pickup truck models geared for off-road use.
Low-Speed Turning Radius
The final test highlighted the RD6’s precision in navigating tight corners. We were challenged to go through a tight “S” shaped section with a 360-degree turn at the end designed to test the vehicle’s turning radius. The driver was advised to maintain a moderate speed around the course.
I’ve observed that the RD6 swept through the course with ease. Because of its unibody construction, lightweight body, suspension, and electronic power steering, the driver managed to complete the course easily. The 360-degree turn concluded the test with the RD6 holding its ground and maintaining a steady but nimble pace.
Beyond Driving
Aside from the driving tests, Radar also set up an area where two RD6 units are displayed, all rigged with overlanding equipment. This highlights the vehicle’s lifestyle-oriented aspect as it can accommodate a host of recreational gear for those who want to experience the great outdoors.
Out Takeaway
All in all, the Radar experience was one for the books. A good way to introduce the brand and its models to the local market. In the Philippines, pickup trucks are commonly seen as big, muscular machines built to be driven for heavy-duty utility and extreme off-road conditions. Not the Radar RD6. Although it’s capable of minor utility work and won’t back out of light off-road duties, its strength lies in its city-exploring capabilities.
It’s more of a lifestyle vehicle than a full-on unit for thrashing around sand dunes or lifting heavy weights. So if you’re looking for a pickup truck with car-like capabilities as you start your journey into electrified mobility, take a closer look at the Radar RD6.
