Geely Riddara Launches New Right-Hand-Drive Pickups in South Africa
JOHANNESBURG, Sept. 07, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) – On August 28, Geely Riddara officially introduced the right-hand-drive versions of the RD6 and RD6 ECON at the Festival of Motoring in South Africa, significantly expanding its presence in the Southern African market. This launch marks an important entry into the new energy pickup segment for local consumers.
At the event, Geely Auto South Africa COO Greg Maruszewski emphasized that the Riddara isn’t just another electric vehicle; it represents a new opportunity for the South African bakkie market.
Visitors experienced Riddara’s impressive off-road capabilities at a challenging 4×4 track during the festival, which included steep gradients and water crossings. The vehicles received high praise for their performance and comfort.
Following the launch, Riddara will embark on a cross-border expedition from Johannesburg to Xai-Xai, Mozambique, designed to further showcase the vehicles’ reliability across diverse terrains.
Riddara has ranked No. 1 in China’s new energy pickup market for four consecutive years, holding a 47.9% market share as of July 2026. The brand has also excelled in markets like Thailand, Chile, and Uruguay.
The RD6 model features remarkable specifications, including:
- Maximum Power: 315 kW
- Maximum Torque: 595 N·m
- 0 to 100 km/h Acceleration: 4.5 seconds
- Payload Capacity: 1,030 kg
- Towing Capacity: 3 tonnes
Its advanced four-wheel-drive system supports various driving conditions, enhancing versatility.
Moreover, Riddara has been proving its utility in numerous sectors, including plant protection in China, pest control in Thailand, and mining in Chile, demonstrating the operational cost benefits of new energy pickups.
Looking ahead, Riddara plans to leverage China’s advancements in new energy vehicle technology to diversify its offerings and meet broader market needs.
Contact:
Leo Lu
Email: riddara-global@geely.com
For more visuals and details, visit this link.
