Three years ago, Czech company MW Motors announced an electric modification of the Russian off-roading classic, the UAZ Hunter, and the car has now finally reached the showrooms.
The tuner uses its own production capacities to convert the body-on-frame SUV into a battery car. It takes out the stock ZMZ engine and puts a single electric motor in its place along with an array of lithium-ion power cells. These come in sizes ranging from 56 to 90 kilowatt-hours, and should translate into at least 150 km (93 miles) of off-road driving.
The off-road geometry, on-demand 4WD and reduction gear stay the same as before. The only exterior difference comes in the form of a faux front grille sporting vertical bars instead of the usual horizontal ones.
Prices in Czech Republic begin at €39,990, and MW Motors will even make you a right-hand-drive SUV if you want it. Soft top is the default roof type, while a metal roof costs €490 extra.
Customers may also specify a rear differential lock for €890, an extra taillight for €149, and an anti-corrosion coating for €490. The MWM Spartan EV is said to be street-legal in the EU and Great Britain.
Later on, the company plans to start offering right-hand-drive conversions of the regular ICE-powered UAZ Hunter, starting from €19,990 or so.