Why are NASA and the US Army impressed by this car?

Canoo has released the video of its Truck crash test. Extremely resistant to various challenges, the electric pickup has captivated NASA and the US Army. 

At a time when American alternatives are multiplying, startup Canoo did not miss the opportunity. The American brand impresses with its crash test. The publicly traded company, despite not having sold any vehicles, seems to be very popular across the Atlantic. It has consecutively signed very symbolic contracts for its image.

Impressive crash tests

Canoo revealed the video of the crash tests suffered by its model called Truck. The video shows prototypes launching off a ramp and landing harshly on their battery case, which rights itself after being launched from a flip sled. Some are even sent from a half-ramp to test rollover resistance. 

Not only did the Canoo remain standing, but its battery pack never exhibited catastrophic damage. Global Vice President M. Gumushian marvels at the shock resistance of Canoo vehicles. “We have crushed these vehicles hundreds of times, made them travel millions of kilometers”, he declares. “Each time, the battery was not damaged”, he adds. “These tests are a remarkable testimony to what our vehicle is capable of”, he stated. “We will have to wait and see how the cars perform in the crash tests of the IIHS and NHTSA (the US federal agency responsible for highway safety) to know if all this work pays off”.

Surprising clients

The futuristic design of the electric van surprised many. NASA selected Canoo for the Lifestyle (one of the brand’s models) to transport astronauts to the launch pad. Canoo’s modular vans will be tasked with carrying astronauts, clad in their spacesuits, and the teams responsible for installing them, to the rocket. The vehicles, traditionally called Astrovans, are mainly a very clever publicity stunt. Delivery to NASA is scheduled for June 2023.

On July 14, Canoo announced that its LTV model was selected by the US Army for a testing program. This electric vehicle is designed to operate in extreme environments and conditions. Intended for military use, it offers a high level of safety both for the battery and the passengers. With its carbon and Kevlar structure, the LTV is more resistant and gains in weight. This Canoo LTV is also meant to be multi-tasking. It can be configured as a pickup, truck, or utility vehicle. Moreover, it is capable of transporting construction materials and tactical equipment for missions. Although the army plans to invest only 65,000 euros in the American startup, the primary goal is to test the modular platform for potential military integration.

Read also: The US Army will test the electric Hummer