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Volkswagen approves production of new pickup truck in partnership with SAIC, the successor to the Amarok in 2027 promises profound changes for the market.
Volkswagen is preparing for a major transformation of its production line in Argentina, with direct repercussions in Brazil. The highlight is the Patagonia Project, which involves the creation of a variant of the Chinese Maxus T90 pickup truck, from partner SAIC, with the mission of becoming the successor to the Amarok in 2027.
According to Argentine journalist Horacio Alonso, from the website A Rodar Post, the production of the new pickup has already received approval from Volkswagen's headquarters in Germany. The Maxus T90 will be the basis for the development of a version adapted to the local market, with production planned for the General Pacheco plant, which currently produces the Amarok. The forecast is ambitious: 70.000 units per year.
New model promises innovation, but also challenges
Although the approval of Project Patagonia is a milestone, the process of adapting the Maxus T90 brings challenges. Among them is the difficulty of finding local suppliers for essential components, such as the fuel tank. As a result, some of the parts will have to be imported in the initial production phase.
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SAIC and Volkswagen Argentina's engineering departments are already working on solutions to these issues, while financial resources and contracts with suppliers have begun to be mobilized. Despite the optimism, the official announcement of the project is expected to take place by the first quarter of 2025.
The new pickup: robustness and versatility
The Maxus T90, the basis for the Amarok's successor in 2027, is an imposing pickup truck measuring 5,36 m in length and 3,15 m in wheelbase. Its diesel engine, in versions with one or two turbos, offers up to 218 horsepower and 50,8 kgfm of torque, accompanied by an eight-speed automatic transmission and 4×4 traction. For those looking for a more sustainable alternative, there is also an electric version.
Although the model that will be produced by Volkswagen in General Pacheco has significant differences in relation to the original Chinese pickup, the objective is to offer a competitive vehicle aligned with the needs of the Argentine and Brazilian markets.
Promising future for Volkswagen in South America
With Project Patagonia, Volkswagen not only reaffirms its presence in the market pickup trucks, but also signals a strategic investment in the segment, replacing the Amarok with an innovative and robust proposal. The arrival of the Amarok's successor in 2027 marks the beginning of a new era for the brand in the region.
