Czech-based start-up MW Motors has revealed an all-electric SUV based on the Force Gurkha lifestyle SUV. Called the Spartan 2.0, the new EV SUV is a rugged looking lifestyle off-roader that is claimed to offer a range of over 240km on a single charge.
The company claims that the new Spartan 2.0 EV has been designed and developed by taking feedback from customers of the previous Spartan EV. The previous model was based on the UAZ Hunter, which is a Russian military 4×4 off-roader from 1971.
MW Motors has sourced the bodyshell, ladder frame chassis, off-road credentials and suspensions along with interiors from Force Motors. The company has sourced the battery pack from the Chinese-based firm; however, every other parts and assembling has been done in-house.
The Spartan 2.0 EV is equipped with a 57.4kWh battery pack, which is placed the under the bonnet. This electric SUV is claimed to offer a range of over 240km on a single charge, which according to MW Motors is sufficient for the average customer’s daily commute. MW Motors has fitted a single motor in place of a gearbox, which offers 176bhp and a huge 1,075Nm of torque.
The electric SUV is claimed to have a maximum speed of up to 175km; however, the speed is electronically limited to 144km. The power is transmitted to wheels through a transfer case to give manually selectable two- or four-wheel drive with high and low ranges. The electric SUV also has manual locking differentials at the front and rear, and hill descent control.
The Spartan 2.0 EV also supports fast charging with rates of up to 90kW. The battery can be charged from 20% to 80% in just over half an hour. It also supports Bi-directional charging, as 230V can be given to power tools and other equipment. Measuring 4,116mm in length, the electric SUV is larger than the Suzuki Jimny. The smaller dimensions will play an important role in driving through tight spaces.
The Spartan 2.0 EV is claimed to offer good off-road credentials. The electric SUV has an approach angle of 38 degrees and departure angle of 35 degrees, and its breakover angle is stated at 25 degrees. The electric SUV has a kerb weight of 2,350kg, while the load and towing capacities are 1,025kg and 3,000kg, respectively. For suspension duties, the electric SUV has coil springs and an anti-roll bar at the front and rear.
The cabin of the Spartan 2.0 EV looks largely identical to the Force Gurkha on sale in India. In terms of features, the electric SUV comes with adjustable seats, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment unit, a digital instrument console, manual air-conditioning, a two-way adjustable steering wheel without any controls for infotainment, and electric windows.
The Spartan 2.0 EV will be sold as a commercial vehicle in Europe. Similar to the Jimny 3-door, the electric SUV will continue to be offered as two-seat SUV without any rear seats. This electric SUV is not likely to arrive in our market in near future. However, Force could think about electric Gurkha as Mahindra is also preparing the electric version of the Thar lifestyle.
