Move over Tesla Cybertruck, here comes the Thundertruck…
Tesla started the insane design trend for electric pickups when it released the Cybertruck across the internet, and now Los Angeles company Wolfgang has picked up and carried on with their new EV called the Thundertruck. In a world with self-driving tech, AI virtual assistants, and cryptocurrency all the rage – they’re hoping an apocalyptic-looking electric truck equipped with solar panels and hologram technology just might get peoples’ attention.
Unlike the Tesla, this truck incorporates solar power directly into its design: a solar-enabled awning expands above the truck to capture the sun’s rays to power up the built-in stove, fridge, air conditioning, and satellite phone. The awnings also double up to provide shade while you’re camping or spending time off the grid.
The retractable awning frees up the EV’s 180 kW battery to power the dual electric motors which make 800 horsepower with 800 ft-lbs of torque. This boosts the truck from zero to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds, despite its bulky 2775 kg weigh in. Wolfgang claim the truck will be able to travel 640 km on a single charge, which, if true, puts it among the market leaders in distance flex.
One of the most innovative aspects of the Thundertruck is its range extender that transforms it from a standard four-wheel vehicle to a six-wheel behemoth. The combined power with the range extender becomes 940 horsepower (700 kW) and 1200 pound-foot of torque, with 4990 kg towing capacity. Aside from its solar super power, the Thundertruck is a fully capable all-terrain vehicle. Like the Cybertruck, its body has the most angular curves, and because it’s made for overlanding, it comes equipped with extendable loading ramps for bikes and quads.
Inside, a monochrome interior with head up holographic instrumentation displays your speed, temperature and fuel levels onto the windshield so you can keep your eyes on the road – or dirt track. The large touchscreen beside the steering wheel controls the all important infotainment system. If that doesn’t make navigation fun, maybe the integrated military-grade drone designed to fly ahead and give the driver a view of the road ahead, may peak your interest.
Pricing is a mystery, but don’t expect an innovative EV monster like this to be affordable. With Ford, Mercedes, and Volkswagen all joining the all-electric revolution – the electric truck wars are just ramping up. ■
By Bill Varetimidis
For the full article grab the November 2022 issue of MAXIM Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.
