American start-up Bollinger has officially unveiled its no-nonsense, retro-styled all-electric B1 SUV and B2 pick-up truck
Bollinger has officially launched its all-electric B1 and B2 off-roaders. The Amercan start-up EV manufacturer claims they are “the world’s most capable” sports utility truck and pick-up truck respectively, with both models offering a configurable body shell, a stripped-back interior and class-leading carrying capacity and off-road ability.
The B1 and B2 share the same all-electric powertrain, with a 120kWh battery pack, an electric motor for each axle, permanent four-wheel-drive and a regenerative braking system. Bollinger says the motors have an output of 606bhp and 906Nm of torque, which gives both vehicles a 0–60mph time of 4.5 seconds, a top speed of 100mph and a range of 200 miles.
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Both vehicles’ battery packs offer support for either 220V charging via a conventional household socket, or DC fast-charging via a commercially available CCS port. Bollinger claims the former system allows a full recharge in 10 hours, while the latter can brim the battery in just 75 minutes.
Initial specifications suggest that the B1 SUV will be more capable than the new Land Rover Defender. The B1 comes with a two-speed high- and low-range gearbox, a near 50:50 weight distribution and approach and departure angles of 52 and 43 degrees – compared to the Defender’s respective figures of 38 and 40 degrees.
However, due to its longer wheelbase, the B1’s breakover angle is marginally poorer than the Defender’s at only 30 degrees; an issue which Bollinger will eventually remedy with the introduction of a two-door, short-wheelbase version later in the car’s life-span.
The B1 and B2 feature removable glass, doors, rear seats and roof panels, as well as a removable windscreen. Standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, bluetooth connectivity and six 110V sockets scattered throughout the cabin. Buyers will also be able to spec heated seats, glass roof panels and a winch as optional extras.
Inside, there’s little else other than an analogue gauge cluster, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and seating for four. Both models also feature Bollinger’s patented “pass through” panels between the rear bed, cabin and under-bonnet storage area. As such, the B1 can transport items up to five metres long, while the B2 can carry items almost six metres long.
The B1 and B2 both have a payload of 5201lbs (2,360kg), a maximum towing capacity of 7,500lbs (3,400kg) and 15-inches of ground clearance. There’s around 400 litres of storage space under the bonnet of both models and Bollinger claims that the B2 can carry 72 sheets of 4 x 8½ foot plywood with the rear seats removed.
Bollinger is currently taking reservations for the B1 and B2, with the intent of starting production in mid-2020. The firm will prioritise the American market first, although Bollinger says it is planning to eventually sell both models overseas, in right-hand-drive format. Prices will be announced towards the end of this year, with first deliveries will due in 2021.
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