UK-based company Fering Technologies has premiered the Pioneer, an all-terrain range extender hybrid that aspires to become the world’s longest-range passenger car.
Propulsion comes from two electric motors mounted one per axle and producing 600 Nm (443 lb-ft) of torque. The traction battery is rather small at 20 kilowatt-hours and 80 km (50 miles) of range, but it continuously receives power from an 800cc three-cylinder diesel engine burning biofuel. The resulting range extender (REX) powertrain grants around 7,000 kilometers, or 4,350 miles, of driving without the need for a refuel.
The company does not reveal the sizes of the biofuel tanks installed, but does mention that adding optional tanks is required to achieve the stated range. Should you not need as much autonomy as that, you can opt for clear water tanks. The Fering Pioneer is marketed as an expedition and research vehicle, so it comes with the corresponding design features and arrangements.
Other options include a larger battery, a hydrogen fuel cell powertrain, and even an ethanol powertrain. The rest of the equipment can also be highly customized, including the body style of the car. The truck version runs best on 22.5-inch mount size tires.
As an all-terrain vehicle, the Pioneer can wade water up to 1.4 meters (4.6 feet) tall, climb slopes up to 60% steep, and accelerate to a top speed of 125 km/h (77 mph). The ground clearance can be as high as 800 mm (31.25 inches), and the weight-to-carrying-capacity ratio is 1:1. The latter means that the car weighs 1.5 metric tons (3,300 lbs) and can transport another 1.5 metric tons.
Fering expects to begin production in the first half of 2022 at a preliminary minimum price of £150,000.