Not a Car, but a Bulldozer: Scottish Electric Vehicle Munro Named Off-Road Vehicle of the Year by Top Gear

June 7, 2026, 15:00

British publication Top Gear has announced the results of its annual awards, naming the utilitarian Scottish electric vehicle Munro the best electric off-road vehicle of 2026. Experts noted that this model is not designed for showcasing status but for heavy-duty work in forestry, agriculture, and mining, where equipment is expected to last two to three times longer than conventional pickups. Visually, the Munro resembles a blocky brick, as its body is constructed from flat or simply bent aluminum panels without complex stamped curves. This approach drastically reduces production costs and allows for easy repair or replacement of body elements right on the job site, far from service stations. The interior of the SUV is fully protected from moisture and dust—it can be washed with a regular hose, and all electronics and buttons feature industrial-grade waterproofing. Instead of fragile widescreen displays on the dashboard, a modest screen with navigation and Apple CarPlay support is installed. The Munro is based on a classic steel frame chassis, with axles featuring coil springs and a robust mechanical all-wheel drive system with three differential locks and a two-speed transfer case. The electric motor is offered in two versions: a base model with 228 hp and a flagship version with 375 hp. The traction lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery with a capacity of 85 kWh provides about 270 kilometers of range in real-world conditions. The electric vehicle supports fast charging at 130 kW, allowing the energy reserve to be replenished from 15% to 80% in half an hour. The starting price of the less powerful M170 version is £69,662 (excluding tax), while the flagship M280 variant will cost at least £82,495. AutoCentre Reference The Scottish startup Munro was founded in Glasgow in 2019 by engineers Russell Peterson and Ross Anderson. Initially, the company planned to engage in small-scale conversions of classic Land Rover Defender SUVs to electric drive. However, during the process, the founders realized that the industry lacked simple, repairable, and durable commercial special vehicles created from scratch. As a result, Munro developed its own frame SUV, which became the first mass-produced vehicle designed and manufactured in Scotland in the last forty years.