South Korea’s KG Mobility, formerly SsangYong, is set to launch its battery-electric Musso amid ongoing refinements ahead of a spring debut in its domestic market, where it has recently been spotted during testing in the snow.
The Musso forms part of a new truck sub-brand under the KGM umbrella and was recently exhibited at a South Korean festival. Its front end features segmented LED lighting reminiscent of designs seen on models such as the Hummer EV. Although it shares its platform with the Torres EVX, the Musso’s longer body and less aerodynamic profile suggest it will not match the Torres EVX’s WLTP range of 500 kilometres.
Both vehicles are expected to utilise the same BYD-sourced 73.4 kWh battery. The Torres EVX is front-wheel drive and powered by a single electric motor rated at 150 kW, whereas the Musso EV is likely to be optioned with dual motors driving both axles. It’s suspected that KG Mobility is also planning an internal combustion variant of the Torres-based Musso EV. For reference, the ICE version of the Torres is fitted with a 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 125 kW. But since there is already a 2.2L diesel mid-size, ladder-frame utility called “Musso”, we wonder what this ICE Torres-based unibody utility may be called?
Accessories previewed
A launch for the Musso EV in the Korean market is imminent, with plans to extend availability to Europe and Australia before the end of the year, and will feature a wide range of customisation options to fulfill its role as a ‘lifestyle vehicle’. KGM has already previewed just a few:
- Roof flat carrier
- Skid plate
- Deck divider
- Roll bar
- Sliding bed
The C-pillar garnish visually separates the deck and cabin, bold and angular character lines of the hood and the dynamic black grille at the front add a three-dimensional feel, while the rear lamps and large KGM emblem complete the bold and confident styling.
Mid-size update
KGM’s mid-size ladder-frame, with its 2.0L turbo-petrol and 2.2L turbo-diesel, has been teased in sketches released by KGM. The update, which is expected to arrive in early 2027, has been rendered by KKS Studio. It shows angular lines with DRL’s running the full width of the bonnet, and wheel arches in the style of the Musso EV. KGM has also stated that they will introduce PHEV’s across the range, which we would expect includes the Musso. A FCEV may even be on the cards…
KGM invests in hydrogen
KGM has entered into an agreement with French specialist Phinia Delphi to integrate hydrogen into future models, with potential applications across both automotive and industrial sectors. Although the project is still in its infancy, it has already received robust support from South Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE).
The initiative is expected to yield a 2.0L hydrogen engine capable of delivering a driving range in excess of 500 km while meeting the most stringent emissions standards. “Eco-friendly hydrogen engines represent a crucial next-generation powertrain technology,” a KGM spokesperson stated. “The engine developed through this collaboration will be applicable not only to vehicles, but also to construction and industrial machinery. By leveraging our unique internal combustion engine expertise, we aim to pioneer the alternative fuel market and expand the eco-friendly pickup segment, targeting niche opportunities within the ICE market.”
South Korea already has 198 hydrogen filling stations, ahead of even Japan with 161 stations. Australia has less than 10 hydrogen stations in operation, though is investing heavily in hydrogen production and will be expanding hydrogen infrastructure rapidly.
