The 1960s-Era Meyers Manx Buggy Is Back In Electric Form

The classic fiberglass dune buggy kit vehicle, the Meyers Manx from 1964, is receiving a brand-new generation with a completely electric drivetrain. The new Meyers Manx 2.0 will make its debut at Monterey Car Week in California.

It doesn't have an air-cooled combustion engine like its predecessor, but it has the same unique design and personality. Freeman Thomas, the current CEO of Meyers Manx (renowned for his design work on classic contemporary automobiles such as the Audi TT and the New Beetle) is responsible for the new generation. 

The Meyers Manx 2.0 respectfully resembles the original. It still has a single-piece body with noticeable fenders, circular headlamps that protrude from the bonnet, uncovered wheels, a detachable roof, and metal end guards. The interior has a single retro-styled instrument, a three-spoke steering wheel, and two seats. Mechanically, the new model is no longer connected to the old Beetle. It is instead built on an aluminum monocoque construction.

Up to 202 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque are delivered to the rear wheels by a pair of electric motors positioned at the back. There are two different lithium-ion battery packs. Each has a capacity of either 20 kWh for a range of 150 miles or 40 kWh for a range of 300 miles.

The first 50 units of the buggy will be manufactured by Meyer Manx in 2023. Its owners will be involved in developing it and will be able to fix any problems by getting upgrades over the air. In the US, regular series production is set to start in 2024, but the price won't be known until later.