LDV G90 people-mover trademarked in Australia, EV possible

The LDV G90 people-mover is one step closer to Australia, following a recent trademark application.

While registering a trademark doesn’t confirm a local launch, it is an important step in preparing a new model for sale in Australia.

The LDV G90 would compete against the Kia Carnival, Hyundai Staria and Toyota Granvia – and potentially join the Mercedes-Benz eVito Tourer in offering an electric option.

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Of note, introducing a new people-mover would fill a gap in LDV’s range, following the discontinuation of the similarly-sized G10 MPV earlier this year. The cargo van model remains on sale for now.

Interestingly, although the Genesis G90 limousine isn't sold in Australia, Hyundai has held a G90 trademark locally since 2015, which could lead to opposition from the Korean giant.

Under the bonnet, the regular G90 is powered by a 170kW turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, matched with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and an Aisin-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission.

Pricing starts at 230,000 yen (AU$48,300) and extends to 350,000 yen (AU$73,500).

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Marketed under the Maxus brand in China and the United Kingdom, the G90 is also available in an all-electric guise – known as Mifa 9.

A 90kWh battery pack sits underneath the body of the Mifa 9, allowing for a claimed driving range of 520 kilometres on the more-lenient NEDC cycle.

Power is rated at 180kW and 350Nm, while consumption is listed at 17.9kWh/100km.

UK pricing for the Mifa 9 – which could retain the G90 nameplate in Australia – is yet to be announced, with pre-orders expected to commence in the coming weeks.

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Measuring 5280 millimetres long with a 3200mm wheelbase, the van is larger than the mammoth Mercedes-Maybach GLS, with a jumbo-sized grille to match in petrol guise.

Outside, it wears slim LED headlights, large front air intakes, chrome lashings, large rear tail-lights, and aero wheel covers for the electric model.

First revealed at the 2021 Guangzhou Auto Show, the G90 sports a large widescreen display that spans almost the entire width of the dashboard – with 10 displays, including a rear seat entertainment system and armrest screens, on offer in China.

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All six individual seats feature power adjustment, and heating, ventilation and massaging functions.

It also features an intelligent ‘pilot’ driving assistance system, allowing point-to-point assisted driving, automatic lane changes, smart parking and emergency avoidance assistance.

The addition of the electric G90 could be joined by an electric version of the T60 dual-cab, badged T60 EV overseas.

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A business case for the vehicle is believed to be under preparation, allowing the T60 EV to potentially become Australia’s first all-electric ute.

LDV also offers an electric Deliver 9 van in other right-hand drive markets, including New Zealand and the UK.

In addition, an updated version of the T60 Max-based D90 petrol/diesel, body-on-frame large SUV is tipped to launch soon, following its unveiling at the Chengdu Motor Show in China in late August.

A spokesperson for Ateco Automotive, the local third-party distributor of the Chinese marque, told Wheels it had “nothing to communicate at this stage".