Riddara all-electric automotive brand powers into the Middle East
With debut of RD6 pickup truck
Radar Auto has officially launched its all-electric automotive brand, Riddara, in the Middle East market.
At an exclusive event held at the Jebel Ali Resort in Dubai, UAE, the Chinese automaker also unveiled the RD6, China’s first 100% electric 4×4 pickup truck. In particular, the launch marked the introduction of a new energy vehicle and the beginning of a high-end lifestyle brand rooted in sustainability and adventure.
The event featured a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Dr Andreas Schaaf, CEO of Geely Group brands at AGMC; Jan Felton, Managing Director of Albatha Group; and Dr Ling Shiquan, CEO of Radar Auto and Vice President of Geely Holding Group.
Watch the Riddara Middle East launch event exclusively here:
Radar Auto/Riddara is a high-end new energy outdoors lifestyle vehicle brand affiliated with Zhejiang Geely Holding Group. This global automotive group boasts an extensive portfolio of global automotive brands, including Geely Auto, Lynk & Co., Zeeker, Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, and Smart.
Icelandic name
Riddara, meaning “warrior” in Icelandic, encapsulates Radar Auto’s vision for outdoor enthusiasts seeking vehicles that match their eco-conscious lifestyle.
The RD6 4×4, which has a versatile pickup truck bed and is available in two power sources, is designed to meet the demands of a new generation of consumers who prioritise sustainability without sacrificing performance. Priced at AED139,000/$39,000), the RD6 promises advanced technology and remarkable performance.
The RD6 is built on Geely Holding Group’s MAP (Multiple Attached Platform), the first and only platform in China explicitly designed for 100% electric pickup trucks. This innovative platform showcases Geely’s advanced technology and expertise in electric vehicles. With the MAP platform, Riddara has achieved groundbreaking designs and performance in 4×4 electric pickup trucks while introducing significant safety, intelligence, and environmental sustainability advancements.
During his speech at the Riddara brand launch ceremony in Dubai on September 27, 2024, Schaaf emphasised the vehicle’s impressive capabilities, noting that it accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.5 seconds. “This isn’t just another vehicle; it represents a revolution in power and performance,” he stated.
With a range exceeding 400km, the RD6 is engineered for daily commutes and off-road adventures. Additionally, it boasts an 86-kilowatt battery pack, allowing users to power various electric appliances during outdoor activities, enhancing the vehicle’s appeal to adventurers.
Water-wading capability
One of the standout features of the RD6 is its water-wading capability of up to 82cm, making it suitable for challenging terrains. “This is a vehicle made for desert drives,” Schaaf remarked, referencing the vehicle’s performance during summer tests in harsh environments.
Jan Felton, Managing Director of Albatha Group, highlighted the evolving landscape of the automotive industry in the Middle East region. “In Dubai, the appetite for innovative, high-performance vehicles is robust. Riddara is perfectly positioned to meet this demand,” Felton said, underscoring the company’s commitment to sustainability, which aligns with the UAE government’s goals.
Dr Ling Shiquan further elaborated on the brand’s strategy, noting that Riddara aims to customise its offerings to meet the specific needs of Middle Eastern consumers. “We are not just introducing a vehicle; we are entering a new chapter of sustainable high-performance vehicles tailored for this market,” he emphasised.
Brand independence
Riddara is designed to leverage the synergies within the Geely Holding Group while maintaining brand independence. Shiquan said the company is poised to capitalise on the growing interest in electric vehicles in the Middle East, a region increasingly focused on sustainability and innovation.
The launch of Riddara reflects a broader trend toward electrification and environmental responsibility in the automotive industry. As consumers become more aware of their ecological impact, brands like Riddara offer solutions that align with their values.
Shiquan stated: “Riddara embodies adventure, spirit, and sustainability. We aim to create vehicles that not only meet but exceed the expectations of today’s eco-conscious consumers.”
Radar Auto is committed to reducing its vehicles’ carbon footprint by focusing on electric vehicles while providing cutting-edge technology that enhances user experience.
The launch event attracted various stakeholders, including automotive enthusiasts, environmental advocates, and industry experts, all eager to witness the future of electric mobility.
Regional shift
The excitement surrounding the RD6 and the Riddara brand signals a significant shift in the Middle East’s automotive landscape, emphasising sustainable practices and high-performance capabilities.
The unveiling of Riddara and its flagship RD6 pickup truck produced at the Zibo smart factory in China marks a significant milestone in the automotive sector. As Radar Auto forges ahead with its commitment to sustainability and innovation, the brand is set to capture the attention of a growing demographic of consumers seeking vehicles that align with their outdoor lifestyle and environmental values.
Since its official launch in July 2022, the Riddara brand, especially its first mass-produced model, the RD6, has attracted considerable market attention. Riddara leverages Geely Holding’s research and development, smart manufacturing, and quality management expertise.
By focusing on essential areas such as motors, batteries, electric control, vehicle networking, and intelligent technologies, Riddara is developing a top-tier intelligent manufacturing system to enhance the performance and attractiveness of its product lineup.
With its strategic partnerships, advanced technology, and a keen understanding of market needs, Riddara is not just introducing a new vehicle but redefining electric mobility’s future in the Middle East. Riddara aims to lead the charge as the region embraces sustainability, empowering a new generation of eco-conscious adventurers.
AGMC (Arabian Gulf Mechanical Centre), a company under the Albatha Group, is the official dealer for Riddara in the UAE.
Riddara RD6 specs
Battery capacity & driving range: The entry-level power source is a 63kWh lithium-ion battery with a 400km range China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC), while an 86kWh battery has a 517km range (CLTC).
Driving type: Two-wheel drive (rear-wheel)
0 – 100km/h acceleration: 4.6s
Peak power of motor: 200 kW
Peak torque of motor: 384 N·m
Minimum ground clearance: 220mm
Minimum turning radius: 6.1m
Approach angle/departure angle (°): 22/25
Curb weight (kg): 2,065 – 2,090
Towing capacity (kg): 3,000
Loading capacity (kg): 775 – 755
Charging time: DC fast charging (30%-80%) 30mins – 32mins / household slow charging 7kW (20%-100%): 7.9h – 11h
Electricity consumption per 100km (kWh): 17.5 – 17.97
Featured image: A pair of musicians perform during the Middle East launch of the Riddara RD6 pickup truck. Credit: Arnold Pinto
Last Updated on 2 months by Arnold Pinto
