Czech company MW Motors launched its second electromod build, which is called the Spartan EV 2.0. Unlike the first edition which was based on the Russian UAZ Hunter, the new model builds on the Force Gurkha 4×4 from India, replacing the combustion engine with a fully electric powertrain.
The new Spartan EV is homologated as an LCV, targeting “farmers, forestry workers, extreme sports enthusiasts, mining firms and nature conservation”. From the outside, the MWM Spartan EV 2.0 looks virtually identical to the Force Gurkha, except for the fully covered grille and the emblems. The 4,116 mm (162 inches) long bodywork bears resemblance to the Mercedes G-Class, although no one will mistake it for one.
Inside, the utilitarian character is evident from the hard plastics and the separate luggage compartment behind the two cloth-upholstered seats. Likewise, equipment is limited to an infotainment touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster, manual A/C, and electric windows. The EV has a pickup-matching load capacity of 1,025 kg (2,260 lbs), and a towing capacity of 3,000 kg (6,614 lbs).
More: India’s 2021 Force Gurkha Makes A Jeep Wrangler Feel Like A Rolls Cullinan
MW Motors
The stock ladder-frame chassis of the Force Gurkha is carried over, featuring coil-spring suspension. However, the ancient 2.6-liter diesel of the original is gone, giving way to a cleaner and significantly more potent electric powertrain. The single e-motor is good for 174 hp (130 kW / 177 PS) and a monstrous 1,075 Nm (793 lb-ft) of torque, although we have a feeling that figure is calculated at the wheels, and not at the motor. If the torque is indeed calculated at the wheels, then it means that the actual torque produced by the motor is multiplied by the gear ratio. Power is transmitted to either the rear or to all four wheels via a transfer case, with manually locking differentials on both axles offering old-school off-road prowess.
Energy is stored in a 61 kWh battery pack (57.4 kWh usable) sourced from China, allowing a claimed driving range of over 240 km (150 miles) between charges. The battery is mounted under the hood, so it doesn’t steal away from the interior space. It can charge to a rate of up to 90 kW, taking it from 20% to 80% in around 30 minutes. Furthermore, it supports V2L bi-directional charging so it can power tools and electronic devices from a 230V slot.
Speaking to Autocar, the General manager of MW Motors said that while the EV retains the 4×4 capabilities of the original, its on-road ride quality and comfort are not compromised, being “comparable to any other car that you will see on a highway”.
The MWM Spartan EV 2.0 is already available in the UK with a price tag of £49,995 ($63,794). This is more than double the starting price of a Suzuki Jimny (£21,699 / $27,658) which is also homologated as an LCV but is powered by a combustion engine. The next step of MW Motors is the debut of the retro-inspired Luka EV sportscar later this year.
