The all-electric pickup truck segment is heating up. The newest model that will go on sale in the near future is the 2022 Nikola Badger. It should represent a strong option in the segment, according to numerous reports. Of course, many of experts are predicting for Tesla to stay at the top of the pickup truck segment. Moreover, Rivian and Bollinger are also considered as major threats. However, Badger pickup could be something completely new and different.
It won’t be an all-electric model, at least not at the beginning of the production. Instead, it will be a plug-in hybrid variant or a fuel-cell electric version. That means the upcoming Badger could generate its power from a hydrogen fuel-cell stack. Starting from the company’s name “Nikola” to the manufacturer’s promises, many people are questioning this model.
2022 Badger Exterior Design
The arrival of the 2022 Nikola Badger will surely cause a huge splash. This pickup truck should be showcased later this year, most likely in September. So far, we don’t know about the vehicle’s design. Whatsoever, the renderings are the only source we got. From what we saw, the new Badger will look futuristic and modern. On the other hand, its shape is kind of strange and unusual. Still, a pickup’s aggressiveness is visible at first glance.
Badger pickup looks especially mean upfront. The front fascia will host an LED light bar and bolder bumper. Interestingly, GMC Sierra pickup features almost the same lighting system. Bulgier hood provides a sportier vibe but overall, it is far from a sporty pickup. The bodywork looks curvy and angular and we like the illuminated side skirts. In terms of dimensions, Badger will be 85 inches wide, 232 inches long and 72.8 inches tall.
Mechanical Specs
The manufacturer promised up to 906 horsepower. On top of that, the all-new 2022 Nikola Badger will pack 980 lb-ft of torque. Those figures are looking unreal at the moment. However, Rivian promises similar figures as well. Based on the previous experience, until its official, you shouldn’t believe in everything you read. Nikola also said that the Badger pickup will feature an independent AWD system which suggests at the quad-motor configuration.
In other words, one motor per axle, to be more precise. You can expect impressive towing capacity and the acceleration of 2.9 seconds to reach 60 mph. These figures are in line with rivals such as Tesla Cybertruck and Rivian R1T. However, Badger will reportedly arrive with a 600-miles driving range. The onboard battery is able to power tools and various things via its 15-kilowatt outlet.
Riding on a Hydrogen Fuel
Using a hydrogen fuel isn’t a new thing in a pickup truck segment. However, it certainly set you apart from the rest of the competitors. The upcoming 2022 Nikola Badger will ride on this type of output. Fueling the pickup won’t be a problem as the manufacturer plans to build around 700 hydrogen stations in the U.S.
At this moment, there are only 42 stations in the whole of North America. Hydrogen is a smart move, for the whole planet and humanity, no doubt about it. Still, Badger pickup will be able to run without hydrogen, exclusively on the all-electric power. The fully electric driving range will be around 300 miles.
2022 Nikola Badger Price and Release Date
The price is not available yet, but you can expect more details in the coming weeks or months. The 2022 Nikola Badger will make a debut this September at the “Nikola World 2020” show. The sales will start in the second half of 2022.