Dongfeng is getting an all-electric off-roader ready to roll in China under the Mengshi sub-brand. The vehicle is based on the M-Terrain Concept revealed back in August (see video) and is already running tests. CarNewsChina claims it will ship next year with up to 1,090 PS (1,075 hp / 802 kW) under the hood.
The peak torque at all four wheels combined is reported as 16,000 Nm (11,800 lb-ft). The sprint time is 4.2 seconds, and the battery capacity is 140 kWh, which should translate into 500 km (310 miles) of driving range. Note that the specifications remain to be confirmed.
We are also told that Dongfeng uses a purpose-built off-road platform for the SUV enabling the use of latest tech, including Level 3 self-driving hardware (much of it can be seen on the prototype version). Adaptive cruise control and self-parking are also mentioned.
In terms of overlanding performance, the still-unnamed SUV will offer air-ride suspension capable of lifting itself by an additional 150 mm (6 inches) when necessary. A special ‘crab mode’ will also be implemented, enabling the car to steer its four wheels simultaneously and ride sideways in tight spots.
Judging by the spy shots, the production car will be nearly indistinguishable from the concept, including the radiator grille, the front fenders and the general outlines. There have been no cabin shots so far, though.
Later on, Dongfeng plans to launch at least one more production car under the Mengshi sub-brand – a pickup truck inspired by the M-Terrain S Concept.