Munro, the Great Britain-based manufacturer, has provided a sneak peek into the production-spec Series-M, following the debut of the MK_1 pre-production prototype. This eagerly awaited release comes a year after the MK_1 made its mark, designed primarily for industries such as mining, construction, utilities, agriculture, and defense.
Munro’s Head of Design, Ross Compton, highlighted that the Series-M underwent substantial changes based on extensive field trials and customer feedback received from the MK_1 pre-production models. Maintaining the Truck (SUV) and Pickup bodystyles, the Series-M showcases not only aesthetic enhancements but also critical engineering updates.
Externally, the Series-M boasts a more distinctive design, aimed at improving forward visibility, practicality, servicing, aerodynamics, cooling performance, and overall efficiency. The redesigned nose exudes ruggedness, with round headlights flanking a set of intakes that, in tandem with the grille, enhance cooling and aerodynamics. A newly inclined bonnet and sculpted front and rear fenders lead to rounded wheel arches, while a roof-mounted “exoskeleton” facilitates the mounting of various equipment, catering to Munro’s target audience.
Inside, the Series-M introduces features such as an adjustable steering column, steering wheel-mounted controls, and improved ergonomics. Safety is further prioritized with available airbags, ABS, stability control, and traction control. Additionally, the ride experience is enhanced with the incorporation of sound-deadening materials for reduced cabin noise.
Under the hood, the Series-M replaces its battery pack with a more durable Lithium Iron Phosphate unit, capable of rapid charging at 130 kW, a notable improvement over the previous 100 kW charging capability. The targeted range also sees a boost, with the Series-M now offering 200 miles (322 km), an increase of 10 miles (16 km) compared to earlier estimates. Engineers have also improved thermal efficiency by utilizing drivetrain-generated heat to warm the cabin.
The Series-M will feature a single electric motor available in two versions: the M170 producing 228 hp (170 kW / 231 PS) and the M280, delivering up to 375 hp (280 kW / 381 PS). Both models retain Munro’s mechanical full-time 4WD system, ensuring exceptional off-road capabilities.
One notable claim from Munro is that their EVs are engineered for up to 50 years of service, contingent on adhering to maintenance and refurbishment guidelines.
The eagerly anticipated Series-M pilot vehicles are set to commence deliveries by the end of this year, with the final model scheduled to begin production in Scotland in mid-2024. Pricing in the UK will start at £49,995 ($60,408) for both the Truck and Pickup models. Furthermore, Munro’s CEO and Co-Founder, Russell Peterson, has revealed that they have secured reservations and sales agreements for 8 pilot vehicles in 2023 and an additional 221 production vehicles in 2024-2025. The company has ambitious plans to ramp up production to an annual rate of 2,500 vehicles by 2027.
In a bid to support this growth, Munro has also announced an equity crowdfunding round through the Seedrs investment platform, running from October 3 to 31. These funds will be used to hire additional personnel and expand their facilities, marking yet another chapter in Munro’s electric off-roading journey.