Tesla Model 3 Vibes Outside, BMW Looks Inside: Meet the New Mullen FIVE EV

Rivian proved itself by introducing two magnificent EVs – the highly capable and well-designed quad-motor R1T and R1S.

Lucid debuted marvelous engineering solutions that took the all-electric powertrain to the next level of performance and focused on creating a posh cabin. It sells sedans that are even one-upping brands like Mercedes-Benz.

Fisker is just starting to make itself noticed after pulling itself up by its bootstraps and repurposing its entire brand philosophy. The Ocean is a fine all-electric crossover SUV with a couple of gimmicks like the solar roof, the California mode that opens all the windows (including the rear windshield), and the tilting infotainment screen.

These brands succeeded because Tesla took it upon itself to revolutionize what once was a very conservative business sector. It pushed forward against all odds, and, even though it did a couple of questionable things along the way, it succeeded.

If you like to measure performance by what investors think, then Tesla really is an international behemoth – the Texas-based marque is the world's most valuable automaker.

So, what does Mullen Automotive want?

Around two years ago, we were telling you about the Mullen FIVE EV Crossover that popped out of nowhere with a striking, almost McLaren-like front fascia, a svelte body, a sloping rear roofline, a visibly great ground clearance, large wheels, and a rear-end that provided the vehicle with an elegant and minimalistic finish.

During these two years that have passed, nothing has changed performance-wise. The EV maker still promises 325 miles of range on a single charge, a 155 mph top speed, and a zero to 60 mph time of 3.2 seconds.

But one dramatic update happened – the interior is now boasting some BMW-sourced parts. Mullen CEO David Michery published a couple of photos on his own Twitter (X) account. The images show:

• a rebadged BMW M steering wheel with carbon fiber inserts and buttons for the advanced driver-assistance system;
• BMW stalks;
• the BMW sport pedals (including the dead pedal) with rubber-insulated PPE inserts;
• a fusion between BMW's iDrive 8 screens and the old iDrive 7 housing.

In our book, this is a great idea. Mullen will give buyers a sense of familiar premium materials and shapes. If the skin installed on top of iDrive 8 won't affect the system's performance, it could also provide a great infotainment experience because BMW is known for making great automotive software.

The shot revealing the new interior is a clear departure from what we have previously seen on the FIVE EV concept. This prototype might hint that the brand is getting closer to actually putting this vehicle into production.

One weird thing we noticed is the giant shifter that doesn't seem to have any other functionality. It's just… There!

Moderately elegant but practical and promising

On the outside, Mullen chose a striking look for the FIVE EV that instantly reminds us of the redesigned Model 3. Slim headlights that seem to have matrix functionality, a sculpted front fascia with three air intakes, and a hood featuring muscular lines contour an EV that means business.

The side profile reveals an aerodynamic look, Land Rover-like door handles that hide when the car's moving or sitting still, two-tone paint that enhances the vehicle's sporty aesthetic, and a hatchback-like trunk that indicates hauling stuff around won't be a problem.

The price is expected to start from around $55,000. The vehicle includes a 95-kWh battery pack and offers 71 cu-ft of cargo room. Mullen also promises fast-charging capabilities.

Sadly, that's all we know about this intriguing zero-tailpipe emission crossover. The aspiring EV maker is dealing with some stock-related issues. Having lost over 99.5% of its value since September 2022, the brand started litigation with some entities that deal with trading.

However, Mullen's authorized US dealership Randy Marion said the official EPA range numbers would come soon. That should bring some much-awaited good news.

If the aspiring EV maker wants more pre-orders and to excite people who are ready to leave behind their fossil fuel-powered habits, it must share more details about the size, powertrain, battery chemistry, trims, and service centers. There are already many EV offers on the market from legacy auto brands or new carmakers that have proven themselves and showed they have a firm grip on dealing with everything that comes with selling cars.

It must also make a choice - NACS or CCS Combo 1? Most automakers present in North America have already sided with Tesla and are getting Supercharger access from next year or 2025. The inlet choice matters because it can bring more prospective customers into the Mullen universe or alienate them.

However, what will happen next is anyone's guess. But we hope Mullen Automotive will figure it out and bring forward a worthy competitor for the Tesla Model Y, Fisker Ocean, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Mercedes-Benz EQB, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Audi Q4 e-tron, VW ID.4, Nissan Aryia, Chevrolet Bolt EUV, and Volvo XC40 Recharge.

Finally, Mullen Automotive also makes all-electric vans and other types of commercial vehicles. But this crossover SUV is what will put it on the map, as long as it finds a way to start the manufacturing process.

Nothing else needs to be said!????#AmericanMadeV pic.twitter.com/WAUAwrh86Z

— David Michery (@DavidMichery) September 13, 2023