2026 Geely Riddara RD6 electric ute draws closer
Beginning of NZ sales suggests Chinese dual-cab could be priced from less than $60,000 when sales start hereThe News
The Geely Riddara RD6 has inched closer to its debut Down Under following its launch in New Zealand, where it has been priced from $NZ69,990 ($A63,300) – the same as the plug-in hybrid BYD Shark 6.
The Key Details
- Geely ute could be on sale here later this year
- Tipped to be priced from less than $60,000
- Monocoque construction but still scores a 1000kg payload
- Likely to be sold directly from Geely dealers
The Finer Details
Geely has yet to officially confirm the inbound Riddara RD6 for Australia, but execs have previously told media they hoped it would land in early 2026, but the deployment of the electric version in NZ suggests an earlier arrival could be on the cards.
In New Zealand, the RD6 is being sold through Geely-branded dealerships rather than a dedicated network for the Riddara sub-brand.
Reports suggest selling the electric ute alongside the Geely EX5 SUV could help it undercut the BYD Shark 6 and start from around $55,000.
The Kiwi-spec RD6 features a dual-motor powertrain good for 315kW/543Nm and 0-100km/h in a claimed 4.5 seconds, though its 73kWh battery only provides 360km of WLTP range – single-motor versions and bigger battery packs are offered in other markets.
A 1030kg payload matches ladder-frame offerings like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux, though the electric monocoque admittedly lags behind on towing: 3000kg braked vs 3500kg.
Offered (in NZ) in one trim, all 2025 Geely Riddara RD6 comes with faux leather heated and ventilated front seats, a large 14.6-inch infotainment system and a 360-degree camera that provides a see-through floor feature for off-roading.
The Road Ahead
The Aussie introduction of the RD6 before the end of this year could give Geely a valuable foothold in the growing all-electric ute segment in Australia that was effectively owned by the now discontinued LDV eT60. Keen pricing, explosive performance, respectable payload and more car-like drive characteristics could all pave the way for its success while the Kiwi version’s limited 360km range would be easily fixed by the inclusion of single-motor, long-range versions.
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