Foton Thunder EV

Upon entering the Foton Thunder EV, you’ll be greeted by a minimalist cabin that has an abundance of soft-touch materials all around. For a pickup truck, its seats are very well-padded, ensuring that everyone on board is supported and comfortable even on longer trips out of town. It also comes with a central armrest both in the first and second rows.

In terms of entertainment and information accessibility, it comes with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment display that is equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, USB and AUX input, as well as a navigation system. Its infotainment display is linked to a 6-speaker audio system. For a more refined riding experience, this pickup truck also comes with an ambient lighting system and a cabin air purifier.

Upfront, drivers are given access to a 3D cockpit design that comes with a leather-wrapped multi-functional steering wheel and a semi-digital instrument cluster, which has a digital odometer and clock. 

In terms of dimensions, the Foton Thunder EV measures 5,340 mm in length, 1,940 mm in width, and 1,870 mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 3,110 mm and an impressive payload capacity of 1,090 kg. With this in mind, hauling light to moderate cargo will never be an issue with this pickup truck. 

From the outside, the Foton Thunder EV shows a commanding presence on the road. It features a bold, macho look that exudes a combination of ruggedness and sportiness. It has an assertive-looking front end, which is accentuated by a huge “FOTON” lettering on its black upper grille. Underneath, it also sports another black lower grille.  Its facade is illuminated by halogen projector headlights and fog lamps for increased visibility, especially at night. It has a nice two-toned side view courtesy of black window trims and stepboards, which increase passenger convenience. It runs on a robust set of 18-inch alloy wheels.

Meanwhile, at the rear, bold styling details further emphasize its rugged, sporty personality. It comes with blacked-out sport bars and rear bumper for more detail. In terms of lighting, it comes with bulb-type tail lights and a high mount brake lamp. Another huge “FOTON” lettering gives it a very assertive hindlook.

The Foton Thunder EV utilizes a MacPherson Strut suspension at the front, while a Leaf Spring suspension at the rear. This suspension setup allows this pickup truck to effectively absorb bumps and light to moderate potholes. It also handles well even at high speeds. However, when it comes to passing through bumper-to-bumper traffic at low speeds, its steering might be too firm for others. But, overall, this pickup truck can give a smooth and stable ride for everyone on board.

The Foton Thunder EV is powered by an all-electric powertrain that utilizes an 88.55 kWh battery pack that delivers a maximum driving range of 520 kms. Its battery has a direct current (DC) fast charging time of up to 100% in just 1.5 hours. It runs on a single-speed automatic transmission system. It is equipped with two drive modes: Eco and Sport.

This pickup truck can run smoothly both in the city and on the highway thanks to its good power delivery. Considering its maximum driving range, it is a practical and sustainable daily driver in the city and a feasible weekend car for your out-of-town trips. It offers great efficiency and responsiveness thanks to its all-electric powertrain.

In terms of safety, the Foton Thunder EV is equipped with several driver assistance systems. This includes traction control, brake assist, hill start assist and hill descent controls, tire pressure monitoring, rear parking sensors, a rear camera, and an electric parking brake. In terms of braking, it utilizes front and rear discs. Its braking setup is supported by an anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, and a vehicle stability control system.

The Foton Thunder EV has the necessary features to give it a more competitive standing in its segment moving forward. It offers a sweet spot for consumers with families and business owners who are in the market to buy a very versatile pickup truck that is not only sustainable and comfortable, but also durable enough to withstand the tough and unpredictable road and weather conditions in Metro Manila.