Coupe SUVs often prioritize style over space, and their distinctive sloping rooflines can compromise cargo capacity, especially when it comes to accommodating taller items.
However, Changan Automobile, China’s oldest car manufacturer, has introduced an innovative solution to this challenge through its new electric-only brand, Qiyuan.
The brand’s production model, the Qiyuan E07, recently unveiled through images on the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology website, presents a unique take on the SUV by incorporating a truck bed.
Distinct from traditional pickup trucks, the Qiyuan E07 features a sliding rear glass section that allows it to transform into a pickup when needed.
This design falls into the category of a “trucklet,” with a comparable length to that of a Ford Maverick.
While the practicality of traditional pickups may surpass this EV’s transforming feature, the ability to switch between SUV and pickup modes adds an interesting touch to the vehicle.
It’s worth noting that a similar concept existed in the mid-1960s with the Studebaker Wagonaire, a boxy wagon with a retractable sliding roof.
Unlike its historical predecessor, the Qiyuan E07’s retractable rear section operates independently of the separate tailgate, eliminating the need for passengers to slide the roof forward to access the cargo bed.
However, it remains uncertain whether the cabin is fully separated from the cargo section, potentially leaving passengers exposed to the elements, a detail not clarified in the concept.
In terms of technical specifications, the Qiyuan E07 offers a single-motor setup with 338 horsepower. Opting for the all-wheel-drive variant adds an additional 252-hp motor, resulting in a total output of 590 hp.
The vehicle is equipped with 20- and 21-inch wheels, showcasing its versatility and performance.
Despite its impressive power and unique design, the Qiyuan E07, with its Cybertruck-esque bed cover, may not appeal to those seeking a conventional pickup truck for practical purposes.
Instead, it seems to cater to the “lifestyle vehicle” market, targeting consumers who prioritize style and versatility over traditional utility. As a curious historical note, the sliding roof concept has been explored before in vehicles like the Studebaker Wagonaire and the GMC Envoy.