Rival of Tesla's Cybertruck electric pickup has a huge differential: Giant solar panel on the roof and surprising autonomy

While the electric car industry is still frantically waiting for Elon Musk's automaker to bring the Tesla Cybertruck electric pickup truck, there are a bunch of new electric cars of the genre emerging. A very interesting entry is the EdisonFuture EF1-T electric solar panel pickup truck. This is an electric vehicle subsidiary of SPI Energy, a Chinese company that has its roots in providing renewable energy. And the great fame surrounding this distinctive-looking EV is the clever use of solar panels to add more autonomy to its battery. 

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EdisonFuture EF1-T: Attractive Tesla rival, has solar panel on roof and will be made in China

Manufacturer of solar panels with photovoltaic cells, SPI also owns Phoenix Motorcars, a well-known company that converts pickup trucks and vans into electric vehicles. So putting the two together, EdisonFuture created the EF1-T to use solar energy.

Huge, Tesla Cybertruck's main electric pickup competitor, EdisonFuture EF1-T, won't hit the US market alone, as a van/van variant has also been announced. Coincidentally having started conversions with the Korean Actyon Sports, Phoenix supports a new product. Single, dual and tri-engine layout ranging from 470 to 816 HP.

EF1-T: The most anticipated solar pickup around the world

With the ambition to enter the newly launched full-size electric pick-up segment, EF1-T defines itself as a solar pickup truck. The rear cargo compartment, with two possible lengths (1,98 and 2,44 meters), can be fully opened or with an aerodynamic zipper that resembles an armadillo and lined with solar panels. Its role is obvious: provide power, improve aerodynamics and cover the load.

Its exterior details include the retractable step to go up or down, the mirrors via video cameras, ample ground clearance, hidden handles or T-shaped taillights that cover the corners. Inside, we will find solar panels on the top of the dashboard, ambient lighting, space for five people, a 17,5-inch infotainment screen, etc.

Alternative versions

They intend to offer three versions: EF1-T Standard with a single engine, EF1-TP Premium with a twin engine and EF1-TS Super with two or three engines. They differ in their ability to accelerate (0-96 km/h in 6,5 to 3,9 seconds) and the load they can tow, over 7.500-8500 pounds i.e. over 3,4 to 3,85 tons . Prices have not been communicated.

Taking advantage of the same platform, EdisonFuture will offer the full-bodied EF1-V van, the missing link between the usual van in Europe, with a single cabin -for three people- and full cargo space, and a fully enclosed American pick-up truck. The rear doors are sliding and open backwards, in addition to the double leaf hatchback. The presentation will take place on the 17th of November, when the first orders are expected to be accepted. 

Finally, autonomy was not declared, nor was the power of the intermediary. The Super is known to have three engines, so the Premium must be AWD with two. There is no price forecast yet, but if it succeeds, it will be an interesting option for enthusiasts.