KG Mobility officially launched its new integrated pickup brand “Musso” on Jan. 24. (Photo courtesy of KGM)
KG Mobility (KGM) officially launched its new integrated pickup brand, “Musso,” on Jan. 24,Β marking a significant milestone in the evolution of the company’s vehicle lineup. The brand name, derived from the Korean word for rhinoceros, “muso,” embodies strength, grandeur, and confidence, setting the stage for a new era in KGM’s automotive offerings. The first model under this brand, the Musso EV, is set to be released in the first quarter, promising to be Korea’s first electric pickup truck.
The Musso brand is a continuation of a legacy that began in 1993 during the SsangYong Motor era, known for its robust SUVs. The introduction of the Musso Sports in 2002 marked KGM’s foray into the Sports Utility Truck (SUT) segment, combining the practicality of an SUV with the cargo capacity of a pickup truck. This innovative concept has since evolved, with models like the Actyon Sports, Korando Sports, and currently the Rexton Sports, leading the popularization of pickup models in South Korea.
The Musso EV, initially known by its project name “O100,” represents a fusion of economic efficiency and the practical style inherent to pickups, while also embracing the global shift towards electric vehicles. This model is designed to cater to modern consumers’ preferences for vehicles that offer both practicality and customization, fitting diverse lifestyles. The Musso EV will be pre-displayed at the 2025 Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, a strategic move by KGM to showcase the vehicle in a culturally significant setting.
A KGM representative expressed the company’s ambitions, stating, “With the launch of this brand, we will once again set a new paradigm as a leader in K-pickups.” The representative further emphasized KGM’s commitment to expanding its portfolio, “We will continue to develop and expand a diverse portfolio of pickup lineups to carry on the legacy of Musso.”
The launch of the Musso brand and the upcoming release of the Musso EV highlight KGM’s dedication to innovation and leadership in the Korean automotive industry. As the company transitions from its SsangYong Motor roots, it continues to build on its historical significance, adapting to modern technological advancements and consumer demands. The Musso EV is poised to make a significant impact, not only as Korea’s first electric pickup but also as a symbol of KGM’s forward-thinking approach in a competitive global market.
