K50 Electric Supercar Gets a Makeover for the American Market by Mullen Automotive

Wait & See - Well, now what else? Mullen Automotive and Qiantu Motors, a Chinese automaker, have collaborated to introduce the Qiantu K50 electric supercar to the U.S. market. However, there are notable differences in this venture. The car will now be manufactured at a different location, and launched under a new name. Additionally, Mullen Automotive has acquired exclusive intellectual property and distribution rights for North and South America from Qiantu Motors and its affiliated companies, allowing them to assemble and distribute the Qiantu K50 in the Americas.

Mullen Automotive announced on March 20, 2023, that the U.S. version of the Qiantu K50 will be rebranded as the Mullen GT and GTRS. (Picture from: GreenCarReport)

In a recent press release, Mullen Automotive announced on March 20, 2023, that the U.S. version of the K50 will be rebranded as the Mullen GT and GTRS. The company has also revised the styling of the K50, also known as the DragonFLY K50, to align it with other planned models. Powertrain upgrades have been implemented, enabling the vehicle to achieve a claimed 0-60 mph time of 1.95 seconds and a top speed "exceeding 200 mph."

The Qiantu K50 while sat on the 2019 New York Auto Show brought by Mullen Automotive. (Picture from: GreenCarReport)

Mullen has outlined a comprehensive program to re-engineer and redesign the product to comply with U.S. homologation requirements and meet the expectations of today's supercar enthusiasts. These modifications will incorporate Mullen's distinct vehicle design language, which is currently evident in the Mullen Five and Mullen Five RS models. Furthermore, the vehicle will feature an upgraded powertrain, targeting an acceleration time of under 2.0 seconds for the 0-60 mph sprint and a top speed exceeding 200 mph.

To become the Mullen GT and GTRS, the Qiantu K50 will go through a comprehensive program to reengineer and redesign the product to meet US homologation requirements. (Picture from: GreenCarReport)

Mullen plans to finalize engineering adjustments to meet U.S. standards and conduct final assembly in Mishawaka, Indiana. The company acquired a factory in Mishawaka, previously used to manufacture Hummers, when it purchased the assets of Electric Last Mile Solutions (ELMS), an unsuccessful EV startup. Mullen's approach aligns with ELMS' strategy of adapting Chinese-market EV designs to meet U.S. standards.

Initially Mullen Automotive intended to bring the K50 to the U.S. along with an electric SUV called the MX-05 in 2021. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

Mullen has not provided a specific timeline for the launch of the GT and GTRS in the U.S., but the project has been in progress for some time. The K50 was showcased at the 2019 New York Auto Show, and the initial plan was to assemble 1,000 units in Washington state. However, those plans have been abandoned.

The Mullen Five known also as the other Mullen Automotive's plan to realese along with a Class 1 electric van, potentially based on the ELMS vehicle. (Picture from: OtoDetik)

Initially, Mullen intended to bring the K50 to the U.S. along with an electric SUV called the MX-05 in 2021. However, their plans have since expanded to include a range of EV models, including commercial vehicles. Mullen's journey began with the acquisition of assets from Coda, and certain aspects, such as the company's battery management system, have been assets as Mullen moves forward.

The Bollinger B1 All-Electric Sport Utility Truck along with the Mullen Five will be produced by Mullen Automotive at its production facility in Indiana. (Picture from: TheDrive)

In addition to the performance car, Mullen plans to release the Five performance SUV and a Class 1 electric van, potentially based on the ELMS vehicle. Mullen also holds a majority stake in Bollinger Motors. Manufacturing for the Five and the Bollinger B1 and B2 trucks will take place in Indiana, while the Class 1 electric van is planned to be assembled in Tunica, Mississippi.

As the Qiantu K50 electric supercar undergoes a remarkable transformation by Mullen Automotive to cater specifically to the American market, automotive enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the arrival of the Mullen GT and GTRS. With advanced engineering, design enhancements, and performance upgrades, these vehicles are poised to redefine the electric supercar experience in the United States.

Representing the pinnacle of electric automotive innovation and performance, the Mullen GT and GTRS will captivate drivers and make a lasting impact in the American automotive landscape. Get ready to embark on an electrifying journey as Mullen Automotive brings a new era of exhilaration to the American roads. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MULLENUSA | GREENCARREPORT ]

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