On April 6, GS Global held the launch showcase for the 1-ton electric truck ‘T4K’, which was revealed for the first time. The T4K is released with the main concept of ‘a smart electric truck that makes your daily life easier’ and officially begins sales.
GS Global hosted the launch showcase titled ‘More than OK, T4K’ at ‘Crest 72’ in Jung-gu, Seoul, where they unveiled BYD’s 1-ton electric truck ‘T4K’. With this introduction of the T4K, GS Global announced its significant entry into the electric commercial vehicle market following its electric bus lineup.
Focusing on the electrification of the 1-ton truck, the most popular vehicle type in Korea, GS Global entered into an official importer contract with BYD, a company with high technological expertise and rich experience in electric vehicle manufacturing. By reflecting the voices of existing 1-ton truck customers regarding driving distance, safety, and convenience, they launched the Korean-style 1-ton electric truck T4K for Korean consumers.
The T4K is equipped with BYD’s next-generation Blade Battery, which overcomes the bulkiness of existing lithium iron phosphate batteries while enhancing their thermal stability. With the highest capacity in the domestic 1-ton electric truck market at 82 kWh, it can achieve a driving distance of 246 km under normal conditions and 209 km in low temperatures, meeting the Ministry of Environment’s certification standards. The motor output is 140 kW, boasting the highest performance among domestic 1-ton electric trucks.
The exterior design emphasizes aerodynamics with a basic yet effective cabin design, complemented by a front bumper that enhances safety, creating a sleek yet robust impression. The high-strength cargo bed and suspension provide stability even while transporting heavy loads. Additionally, features such as cruise control, battery heating system, side and bottom battery protectors, and front passenger airbags are standard, ensuring the driver’s safety.
For the first time in a domestic commercial vehicle, the T4K features Vehicle to Load (V2L) technology that allows its electric energy to be used externally. By connecting a dedicated adapter to the charging port located at the back seat, users can power devices such as TVs, microwaves, and coffee machines outdoors. Additionally, there is a separate 220V plug inside for charging laptops, tablets, and power banks, providing a practical operating environment.
The interior features a 12.8-inch smart pad that supports multimedia functions like radio, music, and videos. To address consumer feedback on in-car navigation systems, GS Global has collaborated with Tmap Mobility to provide the ‘Tmap EV Dedicated Navigation.’
The T4K is equipped with optimized features suitable for the domestic environment, such as the range visualization based on remaining battery level, destination route checking, and EV charging station guidance. Additionally, it features SK Telecom’s AI voice recognition function, ‘NUGU Auto’, enhancing driver convenience through voice navigation control and phone calls.
Moreover, several premium specifications focusing on driver convenience and practicality are standard, including a full-color LCD cluster, smart key, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad, dial gear knob, and push-button start, setting it apart from existing 1-ton trucks.
The price for the T4K ‘Supercab Long Range Premium’ is set at 46.69 million KRW. This price includes features that differentiate it from similar vehicles, such as maximum capacity battery, V2L technology, and smart pad functionalities. The maximum electric vehicle subsidy from the Ministry of Environment is 12 million KRW, and in regions receiving maximum local government subsidies, additional support for small business owners can bring the purchase price down to around 19 million KRW.
Additionally, the T4K can also be accessed via the KakaoT mobile app. GS Global has increased customer accessibility to purchasing through a sales agreement with Kakao Mobility. Customers can find detailed information about the T4K by selecting ‘Buy T4K Truck’ on the KakaoT app, as well as make reservations and consultations to connect with local dealers directly.
Customers who apply through the KakaoT app and complete their purchase will also receive the ‘Kakao Welcome Gift’ on a first-come, first-served basis. The ‘Buy BYD Truck’ service on KakaoT will open on the 7th.
The sales and service for the T4K will be managed by regional dealers. Notable representatives include ‘G&B CV’ for the Gyeongnam area and ‘Shinajoo e-Truck’ for the metropolitan area. These regional representatives are establishing 3S (Sales, Service, Spare parts all managed) business locations that include dedicated service centers in key hubs like Seoul, Osan, Busan, and Daegu.
In addition to the 3S dealer network, maintenance services for T4K customers can also be received at partner workshops such as GS Auto Oasis and Zyle Motors, which have partnered with GS Global. Large corporate customers can also utilize mobile maintenance services, thereby building a comprehensive repair network. GS Global plans to continue expanding its sales and service networks to ensure reliable service for customers and enhance customer satisfaction.
GS Global’s mobility division representative stated, “The T4K was launched while sincerely reflecting the requests of Korean customers and emphasizes practicality and convenience in this smart 1-ton electric truck.” They further added, “With the launch of the T4K, we aim to actively contribute to the establishment of electric commercial vehicles in Korea by planning to expand the lineup to include 3-ton and 5-ton electric vehicles in the future.”
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr