The Munro Mk1 will be the first car to be mass-produced in Scotland since the closure of the Chrysler factory in 1981.
When builders Munro Vehicles relocates from its current headquarters in East Kilbride to a specially constructed facility in the heart of Scotland, output is expected to expand to more than 250 cars annually at first, creating 300 new jobs. The new facility is anticipated to eventually produce 2,500 cars every year.
The Munro combines a cutting-edge 280kW electric drivetrain, which ensures no tailpipe emissions, with a tried-and-true mechanical driveline, which is designed to be dependable and easy to maintain. Due to its distinct qualities, the Munro could be the perfect option for those looking to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing performance or capability in a variety of industries, including construction, agriculture, mining, emergency rescue, remote infrastructure maintenance, and recreation.
Inspired by the Scottish Highlands
Deliveries are expected to start in 2023, and the car will be priced around £60,000. The vehicle can run for up to 16 hours on a single battery charge.
The idea for the car came from the co-founders during a camping trip in the Highlands. Munro Vehicles CEO Russell Peterson was quoted by STV as saying in a press release “It dawned on us that there was a gap in the market for an electric-powered, four-wheel-drive, utilitarian workhorse. We envisioned a vehicle with ultimate, go-anywhere, off-road ability, unrestricted by road-derived underpinnings that limit the all-terrain ability of vehicles such as the 4×4 pick-up trucks that have come to dominate the market.”
The car is being developed with the assistance of Far by Four, an off-road driving training company. The press release also quoted director of Far by Four Hugh Roberts, who said “The Munro EV has always impressed me. Straight away, the vehicle was competent off-road and now with the benefit of ongoing testing and development the Munro is a very polished performer. A combination of electric torque, supple suspension and a rigid chassis makes it an easy vehicle to place confidently without the need for excessive speed to clear technical terrain.”
A rival to the Defender
The vehicle even impressed Top Gear Magazine, which called the vehicle an “all-electric Land over Defender rival.”
According to Fleetpoint, an online car industry magazine, the “Founders’ Edition” has already received a number of deposits. Customers from the UK, as well as Switzerland, St. Lucia, and Dubai, have placed orders. Prior to series production, the Founders’ Edition will be produced for early adopters and fleet trials in accordance with UK Individual Vehicle Approval requirements.
This vehicle is evidence that a car will look the part if it executes its job well. The Munro stands apart from any other classic or modern car in the market thanks to its distinct, powerful identity as a Scottish vehicle.
