Mullen's 200 mph electric crossover that'll make you blink twice

19 August 2023

If you’re new to the EV world then it must feel like the electric vehicles have come a long way, haven't they? Gone are the days when EVs were just fancy golf carts driven around by those trying to make a quiet and emissions-free statement. The truth is, that nowadays we are being bombarded with new EVs every day, especially the SUV kind. Enter Mullen Automotive, claiming its new vehicle is ready to redefine how we think about electric SUVs.

Set your calendar for August 20th - it marks the day Mullen is unveiling its new pride and joy, the Five RS. The company promises to, quite literally, electrify the automotive world with this high-performance beauty. And what's its claim to fame? A rather ambitious top speed of 200 mph. As if that isn't enough to raise an eyebrow, this monster can zoom from 0 to 60 mph in a Plaid-rivalling 1.9 seconds. Did you blink? Well. you just missed it.

For those who are unfamiliar with Mullen (and don't worry, you're not alone), it’s not really the new kid on the EV block trying to muscle into territory largely claimed by well-established brands. The company has been teasing various EVs, including the Five RS, for quite a while, shifting strategy from SUVs to city minicars to electric trucks, with a rather lackluster track record.

Their new strategy? Delivering something that's not just fast in a straight line but can actually handle the twists and turns of an actual race track. Let's just say they aren't going for the "all show, no go" mantra. It seems Mullen realized the best way is to stop messing around and go back to its performance roots.

Mullen credits the dazzling performance of the Five RS to its 1,100 hp (820 kW) all-electric, AWD powertrain, accompanied by a two-speed gearbox (a two-speed gearbox in an EV? Color us intrigued). The engineers didn't just slap on a beefy powertrain and call it a day. They've put thought into ensuring the Five RS isn't merely a flash in the pan. This beast is geared up with a performance-oriented suspension and is endowed with some serious rubber - 325/35R21 tires, front and rear. Oh, and let's not forget the brakes specifically tailored for this crossover's unique requirements.

Mullen's chosen venue for the big reveal is the Circuit of the Americas, located conveniently—or should we say provocatively—in Austin, Texas. And yes, that's right on Tesla's doorstep. Coincidence? You be the judge.

For those lucky enough to attend the unveiling, don't get your hopes up about taking this electric beast for a spin. Mullen, playing a bit coy, isn't letting anyone drive the Five RS just yet. Instead, it’s offering a backseat experience with a professional racecar driver at the helm. Because, apparently, mere mortals aren't equipped to handle such electrifying power right off the bat.

While the Five RS steals the limelight, the standard Five is said to come with a 95 kWh battery, boasting a range of up to 325 miles and seating for, you guessed it, five. What battery and what mileage does the RS model come with? This will be revealed next week. While Mullen is making waves in the consumer sector, they're not shying away from commercial endeavors either. On August 10th, they commenced production of The Three, a 14-foot Class 3 truck, in Mississippi. A company to watch? Absolutely.

Via