Glasgow-based EV start-up Munro Vehicle has completed the first pre-production model of its electric 4×4 as it confirms a £68m customer pipeline of orders.

The Series-M is designed for organisations looking to decarbonise without compromising on off-road performance, practicality or durability

First revealed in prototype MK_1 form in December 2022, the Series-M Utility is a hard-top  five-seater 4×4 that will also be offered as the Series-M Utility pickup currently in production too.

Said to be the “world’s most capable all-electric 4×4”, it combines a full-time 4×4 mechanical drivetrain with an electric powertrain for zero tailpipe emissions.

It’s intended to provide a much-needed solution for organisations looking to decarbonise without compromising on off-road performance, practicality or durability. Target markets include construction, agriculture, mining, environmental, emergency rescue, remote infrastructure maintenance and recreation. And it’s engineered for 50 years of service with routine maintenance and planned refurbishment.

Following the debut of the prototype version, Munro – named after Scotland’s famous mountains – has introduced improvements based on customer feedback.

This includes the introduction of a more durable, longer-lasting LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery pack that can now charge at up to 130kW using a DC rapid charger. Alongside significant improvements to the thermal efficiency of the vehicle, the new battery now delivers a longer range of up to 200 miles.

Powertrains have also been revised and the Series-M is offered with two options – the ‘standard’ M170 with 231hp and ‘high-power’ M280 with 381hp.

Munro has also upgraded onboard features, introducing an adjustable steering column with steering wheel controls and various ergonomic enhancements. The Series-M also gets a full suite of safety equipment, including airbags, ABS brakes, stability and traction control.

Its arrival is seen as a major moment in British automotive history, marking the return of light vehicle mass production to Scotland in over 40 years.

Munro is planning to increase production from 50 vehicles over the next 12 months, to 200 units per annum and 2,500 by 2027. And the business says it has a strong customer order book too.

Marcus Mackle, head of vehicle sales, said: “Witnessing the first pre-production Munro Series-M Utility roll off the line is a momentous moment. Both for Munro and Scotland, as the Series-M Utility is the first light vehicle to enter mass production since the Linwood car factory closed in 1981. While it represents an undeniably historic occasion, Munro’s focus is firmly on the future. With a healthy, two-year customer pipeline worth £68m for the innovative and sustainability-focused Munro Series-M Utility hard top and Series-M Truck open-bed, we can look forward with confidence.”