The boxy Bollinger B1 SUV might look like vintage gasoline-burning off-roaders of the past, but it boasts a modern all-electric powertrain with 614 horsepower. We see elements of the original Ford Bronco here as well as the Land Rover Defender. The B1 will be built alongside the B2 pickup truck in Detroit and both are said to provide a 200-mile driving range between charges. The B1 is a utilitarian affair, and from what we can see so far its interior is free from just about every luxury. We'll know more about the B1 when it's officially unveiled in production form in September 2019.
The B1 features two electric motors—one is located at the front axle, while the second drives the rear—which combined make 614 horsepower. All-wheel drive is standard and Bollinger estimates a 4.5-second zero-to-60-mph time. A two-speed transfer case provides both high and low range for the all-wheel-drive system; when combined with a 15-inch ground clearance, this should give the B1 real off-road capabilities. Towing capacity is a stout 7500 pounds and the payload capacity is 5201 pounds.
An onboard 120-kWh battery pack is said to provide up to 200 miles of driving range. The B1 can be charged using 110-volt or 220-volt outlets, but DC fast-charging is also offered. Bollinger claims a full charge will be possible in about 75 minutes using that option; the company says it will take about 10 hours on 220 volt and doesn't provide an estimate for charging on a 110-volt outlet.
The B1's cabin is simple and unadorned, but there's room for four adults in what look like individual bucket seats; the rear seats fold and then flip up against the SUV's side windows to make room for additional cargo. Speaking of cargo, the B1 has a special pass-through from the cabin to the front trunk, which allows it to accommodate items that are nearly as long as the SUV itself. If you prefer open-air off-roading, the B1 has removable doors, windshield and side windows, but air conditioning is standard if you prefer a more regulated climate-control system.
Bollinger hasn't released information about the B1's infotainment or audio systems but does say Bluetooth will be standard. So far, the images we've seen of the interior show no touchscreens or in-dash navigation, so don't get your hopes up for Tesla-level connectivity.
Since the B1 SUV will be a Class 3 work truck, it bypasses certain government regulations that require airbags and crash-testing.
