This Jimny-sized 4x4 EV is called the Spartan

We already know that there will be an all-electric version of the Suzuki Jimny. The automaker officially confirmed it last year when they revealed their extensive electrification plan for the coming years.

Then a month later, Chinese automaker Baojun revealed the Yep EV. It's a cute and boxy electric vehicle that is as wide and as tall as the Jimny. Unfortunately, it's shorter in length, has a relatively low ground clearance, and is underpinned by a car-based platform. In other words, it may be similar in size but it's no 4x4 SUV.

However, a Czech company by the name of MW Motors may have beaten Suzuki in making a pint-sized, go-anywhere 4x4. This is the Spartan EV 2.0, and it's based on the Force Gurkha 4x4 from India. That's right, MW Motors replaced the internal combustion engine with an electric powertrain but kept the 4x4 system and tall ride height in place.

At the heart of Spartan EV 2.0 is a single electric motor that's rated to put out 177 PS. More impressive, however, is the claimed torque output which is a staggering 1,075 Nm. We're not entirely sure as to how or where MW Motors measured the torque although the gear ratio might have multiplied its output. Power is then delivered to either the rear wheels or all four of them via a 4WD transfer case. And in true 4x4 fashion, it comes with locking differentials for the front and rear axles.

Power is supplied by a 61 kWh battery pack placed under the hood which is rated to give the Spartan EV 2.0 about 240 km of range. It supports 90 kW of charging which means it can be hooked up to a DC charging station that can recharge the battery from 20% to 80% in just 30 minutes. More importantly, the battery also comes with a vehicle-to-load feature which can power devices or small gadgets while in the great outdoors.

With its G Wagen-like body and proportions, the boxy Spartan EV 2.0 can easily tackle uneven terrain with ease. But despite its utilitarian exterior, the interior comes with creature comforts like touchscreen infotainment, air-conditioning, a digital instrument cluster, and cloth seats. And in case you need to carry some cargo, MW Motors claims the Spartan EV 2.0 has a cargo capacity of 1,025 kg and a towing capacity of 3,000 kg.

The Spartan EV 2.0 is already available in the UK and is being marketed as an LCV to attract farmers, the forestry industry, sports enthusiasts, mining companies, and even nature conservationists. But given the appeal of having a Jimny-sized 4x4 for recreational (or daily) use, we won't be surprised if private owners are also looking to get their hands on the Spartan EV 2.0.