Mullen Five RS unveiled with blistering performance, 100 kWh battery

10 January 2024

The Mullen Five RS performance EV just made its official debut at CES 2024. Designed and built in the United States, this electric SUV hopes to make its mark with blistering performance and futuristic features. Lotus Eletre and Tesla Model X Plaid just may get a worthy challenger.

The Mullen Five RS features all-wheel drive, a two-speed gearbox, and the promise of over 1000 horsepower. The Five RS claims to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 2 seconds and comes with a top speed of оver 200 mph. Yes, the performance figures are estimates at the moment but at least on paper, the RS is a proper hoot.

But performance isn't the only ace up the Five RS's sleeve. Mullen estimates that it will offer up to 300 miles of range on a single charge, thanks to its 100 kWh battery pack. The 800-volt electrical architecture will let it charge from zero to 80% in just about 20 minutes, providing you can find a DC charger capable of the required speed. That means you'll be gaining 12 miles of range for every minute on the charger.

Now, let's talk about the hardware that makes the Five RS a force to be reckoned with. It comes equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain that pumps out over 1,000 horsepower and more than 850 lb-ft of torque. That's enough power to catapult this roughly 5,070 lb four-seater to 60 mph quicker than you can say "electric revolution." It also features a two-speed transmission, akin to the Porsche Taycan, further optimizing power delivery.

The Five RS also boasts a visually striking design, with 21-inch wheels on summer rubber as standard. For those who crave even more, there's an option for 22-inch wheels in a staggered setup with 9.5 and 11 inches width, ensuring a grip that's as firm as your commitment to going green.

When it comes to stopping power, the Five RS doesn't disappoint. It features six-piston Brembo front calipers that clamp onto 15.7 inches two-piece carbon-ceramic rotors. That's the kind of braking setup that makes you feel like a track superstar. The Four-piston calipers and 14.6 inches rotors in the rear ensure that stopping from 62 mph takes just 1,318.9 inches – impressive for a vehicle of this size and weight.

In terms of dimensions, the Mullen Five RS measures 192.9 inches from bumper to bumper, stands 64 inches tall, and boasts 6.7 inches of ground clearance. It spans 80 inches in width and features a 116 inches wheelbase. Cargo volume is also generous, offering 26 ft³ with the rear seats up and a whopping 62 ft³ with the seats folded down.

Inside the Five RS, you'll find two large digital displays dominating the dashboard. The 4 individual seats offer both support and comfort, the maker claims. With a standard panoramic sunroof, customizable ambient lighting, a premium sound system, and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you won't be sacrificing features to gain all that performance.

But who is Mullen, and where did it come from? Based in Southern California, in 2022 Mullen acquired a controlling interest in Bollinger Motors, a startup specializing in commercial electric vehicles. While Bollinger put some of its plans on hold that year, Mullen was gearing up for something big.

Originally, the regular Five SUV was slated to hit the market in 2024, with an estimated price of around $55,000. However, things have taken a turn, and the Five RS is now set to debut first, with sales starting next year. Pricing for the Five RS is yet to be officially disclosed, but Mullen CEO David Michery hinted at a starting price of around $295,000, with a carbon-fiber edition soaring to $385,000.

The long-awaited and forever-delayed Mullen Five RS certainly sounds intriguing on paper, but we'd hold the excitement until actual manufacturing starts.

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