First all-electric Munro Series-M 4x4 leaves production line
Munro Vehicles, Scotland's exclusive volume car manufacturer, has achieved a milestone by completing its inaugural pre-production model, the Series-M Utility, a robust five-seater 4x4. This achievement follows the unveiling of the MK_1 prototype in December 2022, a mere ten months ago. This marks a significant moment in British automotive history, marking the return of light vehicle mass production to Scotland, which hasn't occurred since the Linwood car plant closure in 1981.
The introduction of the Series-M Utility marks the next phase in Munro's strategic vision to expand its production capabilities, increase its workforce, and create 300 new jobs in the region by 2027. This scale-up will enable Munro to boost production from 50 vehicles annually, to 200 units in the next year and 2,500 by 2027.
Munro's strategic plan positions it well to seize global market opportunities. The company, recognised as a finalist in the Fully Charged awards for Best Innovative EV Manufacturer, is uniquely poised to cater to clients in demanding sectors like agriculture, construction, defense, disaster relief, and forestry. The Munro Series-M empowers customers to transition to carbon-neutral 4x4 vehicle fleets while maintaining off-road performance, practicality, and durability.
The Series-M range was developed through rigorous testing in the challenging Scottish terrain, incorporating valuable feedback from extensive customer test drives. Munro CEO and co-founder, Russell Peterson, emphasised their commitment to customer feedback, leading to greater innovation, versatility, and sustainability in the electric 4x4.
Improvements include an adjustable steering column with steering wheel controls, safety enhancements like airbags and ABS brakes, and the transition to superior body panelling for easier component replacement. The Munro Series-M aims for fifty years of zero exhaust-emission service, and offers diverse customer options with an 'exoskeleton' for equipment mounting on Utility models.
A longer-lasting LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery pack with faster charging and improved thermal efficiency, utilising waste heat to heat the cabin, ensures a comfortable travel experience. The Munro Series-M combines the reliability of a mechanical 4x4 drivetrain with a state-of-the-art electric powertrain, offering 'standard' M170 and 'high-power' M280 models in Utility and Truck configurations.
Munro's focus remains on the future, with a strong customer pipeline worth £68 million for the innovative Munro Series-M Utility hard top and Series-M Truck open-bed. With over 250 pre-orders for Utility and Truck models, Munro's vehicles address market needs, especially in sectors like mining, construction, utilities, agriculture, and defence, where decarbonisation solutions are in high demand.