Willys Jeep is one of the most iconic lightweight 4×4 SUVs in the world and its inception can be traced back to World War 2 era.
This is India’s only electric Willys Jeep which is actually a miniature version. This Willys miniature is a more compact version of the original Jeep used in 1942 by the American army in the war. This model is a 30% scaled-out version of the original Jeep. Interestingly, this is made by hand and takes around 50-60 days to build. The famous YouTuber interviews the man who makes this to know more details about this unique EV.
Mr Sohan is the creator of this unique electric Willys. He often restores and works a lot on Willys Jeep in India. He mentions that during the lockdown, he came upon the idea to make an electric version of the Jeep. Each and every part, component and dimension of this miniature is 30% scaled-out and therefore, made by hand. Sohan claims that the first lot of around 10 Willys Jeeps have already been sold and there is a long waiting time of around 5-6 months for the new model. If one wants to buy it with a battery (100 km range), it costs Rs 2.50 lakh. Without the battery, it is available for Rs 1.90 lakh.
At the front, the original 7-slat grille is present, the round headlamps are reminiscent of the original mode, the customized bumper with tow hooks, there are 16-inch steel rims with tyres from a motorcycle, the suspension system has been carried over from the original model too, the electric motor is mounted on the rear axle, the battery is placed inside the bonnet which would also double up as a storage area for the luggage. At the rear, there is a jerry can for an additional battery and a spare wheel just like in the old Jeeps.
In terms of interior and seating, two people can sit at the front and two side-facing seats are installed at the back. There is the option of a closed roof, as well as an open roof as seen in the video. It comes with a 2-pedal operation as there is no clutch because it is an automatic vehicle. There is a lever in between the front seats to select the Forward and Reverse moving directions. The 100 km range is great for city use or for the people who have farmhouses outside the cities. The charging takes around 4-5 hours. Share your thoughts about this unique electric version of the legendary Willys Jeep.