Atris has unveiled a prototype of the XT large electric pickup truck.
Atlis Motor Vehicles recently unveiled a prototype of its XT electric pickup truck, reiterating claims of a 500-mile range and 15-minute charge time.
The startup, which has relied heavily on crowdfunding, announced the XT in 2019. At the time, the pickup said it would go into production as early as 2020; it remains unclear when the XT will go into production.
The XT is based on Atris' XP platform, which the company has indicated will underpin a variety of vehicles. Atris previously stated that the 500-mile version will start at $78,000 and feature a 35,000-pound towing capacity with a fifth wheel/gooseneck hitch. The company also plans to offer 300- and 400-mile versions.
At the prototype reveal, Atris said the XT will be available with a 6.5- or 8-foot bed and an 18.5 cubic foot "flank." The cargo bed and trunk will feature a spray-on bedliner, AC outlets, and USB ports, according to Atris. Designed with fleet use in mind, the XT will also accommodate service bodies and flatbed upfits.
Atris also mentioned three- and six-passenger configurations and a 12.9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
However, there appears to be a major technical challenge ahead for Atlis. The company has hinted at advanced battery technology, but it needs to deliver on its promised 500-mile range. In addition, a network of 1.5-megawatt DC fast-charging stations will need to be established to achieve XT's claimed 15-minute charging time.
Atlis also needs funding for manufacturing. Elio Motors previously attempted a similar crowdfunding effort, but after 12 years was unable to produce the highly fuel-efficient three-wheeled vehicle. The company recently shifted its focus to the Elio-E electric vehicle.
If the Atlis XT makes it to production, it could rival the large electric trucks of fellow startup Bollinger Motors, or the GMC Hummer EV and Tesla Cybertruck.