Source: Meyers Manx
US carmaker Meyers Manx, the company that created the first Volkswagen Beetle-based dune buggy in the 1960s, has unveiled the brand’s first all-new vehicle in six decades, an all-electric Manx 2.0 that will go into production next year.
Originally created back in 1964 by Bruce Meyers as a go-anywhere dune buggy dedicated to the adventurous spirit of the times, the Meyers Manx became an American classic and led to Meyers being dubbed the father of the beach buggy.
Now, the Meyers Manx buggy is back: but in a format perhaps more akin to 60s environmental flower-power sensibilities.
Bruce Meyers retained control of the company from the time of its founding until 2020 when he sold the brand to venture capitalist Phillip Sarofim. He died last year.
But under Sarofim and legendary auto designer Freeman Thomas, who was appointed to serve as the company’s CEO, the company will now launch the Meyers Manx 2.0, which will be available in two battery pack sizes, 20kWh and 40kWh, and will boast an all-electric range between 240km to 480km respectively.
Lithium-ion pouch cells with integrated battery management system (BMS) can be recharged through a 6kW on-board charger and an optional 60kW DC fast-charging capability.
The rear-wheel-drive buggy will feature an electric motor per each rear wheel and, on the 40kWh battery version at least, will deliver acceleration of 0-100km/h in an estimated 4.5 seconds.
“The Meyers Manx has always been a symbol of joy, simplicity and purity. It’s the solution to the complexity of life,” said Sarofim, now the company chairman.
“Continuing the legacy of the Meyers Manx connects us with the optimism of the 1960s California culture, an optimism we all can share.”
An initial run of 50 cars will be produced first and delivered to beta select customers in 2023, designed to provide the company with customer engagement and feedback for the development team as they refine a subsequent production version.
Costs are yet to be determined, but the company expects production deliveries to begin in 2024, and pre-orders and applications to participate as an exclusive beta customer will launch through the Manx website on August 19.
“Knowing Bruce’s artistry and Phillip’s enthusiasm for the brand, I am so glad that Bruce trusted us to carry his legacy into the future,” said Thomas.
“The new Manx 2.0 Electric is designed to exceed expectations. It’s simple and endearing and taps into the spirit of playfulness. The ageless design brings out your inner child. It’s about passion.”
The Manx 2.0 Electric will officially debut at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering at the Quail Lodge & Golf Club, in Carmel, California, on August 19.
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.
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