MW Motors, a Czech-based company renowned for its innovation in electric vehicles, proudly announces the launch of its latest creation, the Spartan EV 2.0. This electrifying marvel marks the company's second foray into electromod builds, elevating the off-road experience to unprecedented heights. Departing from its predecessor, which drew inspiration from the Russian UAZ Hunter, the Spartan EV 2.0 inherits its foundation from the Force Gurkha 4×4, a rugged vehicle hailing from India, but with a revolutionary twist – a fully electric powertrain.
Homologated as a Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV), the Spartan EV 2.0 sets its sights on a diverse range of enthusiasts and professionals, including farmers, forestry workers, extreme sports aficionados, mining enterprises, and nature conservationists. At first glance, the Spartan EV 2.0 bears a striking resemblance to its Force Gurkha counterpart, distinguished by its fully enclosed grille and unique emblems. While its 4,116 mm frame may evoke echoes of the Mercedes G-Class, the Spartan EV 2.0 asserts its own identity with distinct flair and purpose.
Step inside, and the Spartan EV 2.0 reveals its utilitarian ethos, characterized by durable plastics and a pragmatic layout. The cabin features two cloth-upholstered seats upfront, with a dedicated luggage compartment augmenting its practicality. Basic amenities include an infotainment touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster, manual air conditioning, and electric windows, underscoring its focus on functionality. With a payload capacity matching that of a pickup truck at 1,025 kg and a towing capacity of 3,000 kg, the Spartan EV 2.0 is ready to tackle any task with aplomb.
Retaining the stock ladder-frame chassis of the Force Gurkha, albeit with coil-spring suspension, the Spartan EV 2.0 bids farewell to its diesel predecessor, ushering in a new era of electrified power. The heart of this beast lies in its electric motor, boasting an impressive output of 174 horsepower and a staggering 1,075 Nm of torque. Power delivery is channeled to either the rear or all four wheels through a transfer case, augmented by manually locking differentials on both axles for unrivaled off-road prowess.
Fueling this electrifying adventure is a 61 kWh battery pack sourced from China, providing a claimed driving range exceeding 240 km on a single charge. Positioned beneath the hood, the battery pack optimizes interior space while supporting rapid charging capabilities of up to 90 kW, enabling a 20% to 80% charge in approximately 30 minutes. Moreover, its V2L bi-directional charging functionality empowers users to harness its energy for various tools and electronic devices via a standard 230V outlet.
In a testament to its versatility, the Spartan EV 2.0 seamlessly balances off-road capabilities with on-road comfort, ensuring a smooth and refined ride experience akin to traditional highway cruisers, as affirmed by MW Motors' General Manager in an interview with Autocar.
The Spartan EV 2.0 is now available in the UK, priced at £49,995, positioning it as a premium choice in the burgeoning electric off-road segment. With its debut, MW Motors sets the stage for its forthcoming masterpiece, the Luka EV sportscar, promising a fusion of retro-inspired design and electrifying performance slated for release later this year.