Hyundai has announced the launch of a fully electric work truck with a design that seems to come from the future. The truck named ST1 evokes some of the famous Ford series.
In typical Hyundai fashion, this initial reveal only concerns the external design, with no details regarding technical specifications available yet. ST1 is exclusively electric and developed to meet the needs of small businesses in South Korea. It will be offered as a regular goods truck, a refrigerated truck, and a basic cab truck.
Hyundai states that they worked with local delivery companies to understand their needs for a work truck. The vehicle's structure is based on steel frames and features unpainted bumpers, showcasing a futuristic front design inspired by the Staria small truck or the Kona small SUV. The main headlights are mounted unusually low, while the full-width horizontal strip above is intended for daytime running lights.
ST1 is designed for those who need a truck that is more spacious than what Staria offers. It also features plastic cladding everywhere to protect the body. Like the Kona electric, the charging port is installed at the front, to the right of what appears to be a small air intake. Hyundai likely has a good reason for placing the front camera on the painted part of the bumper instead of moving it down to blend with the black plastic.
Hyundai claims they developed ST1 with the goal of easing the loading and unloading of goods by lowering the ride height. Although it looks like a box on wheels, the upper front wing is designed with aerodynamic efficiency in mind. Even the massive structures connecting the cabin to the cargo area are designed to provide better airflow.
Full details and pricing for ST1 will be revealed in the first half of 2024, before it hits the Korean market later this year. Hyundai plans to sell the vehicle in other regions after launching ST1 in Korea.
