U.S.-based startup firm Canoo intends to increase its presence on the North American market of electric cars through commissioning new industrial sites and R&D centers, as well as expediting the development of the Lifestyle Vehicle MPV.
The company chose Panasonic to be its traction battery supplier. Expanding production should generate 1,200 new jobs and help deliver on the pre-orders currently hovering in the $100 million USD area.
As for the Lifestyle Vehicle minivan, the company had originally planned to launch it in early 2023, but now says it will hit production no later than Q3 2022. The car features a symmetrical single-space body and rides on 19-inch wheels. The electric powertrain produces up to 350 PS (345 hp / 257 kW), and the 80-kWh battery offers around 400 km (250 miles) of range. Charging from zero to 80% takes 28 minutes.
Later on, the innovative startup plans to expand its range by offering vans, pickup trucks and electric sports cars. In March this year, Canoo previewed a battery truck with a rounded cab, 600-PS (592-hp / 441-kW) drivetrain and 480 km (300 miles) of range that it plans to start producing in 2023.