The iconic British brand enters a new era drives as its Electric Woke becomes the first low-volume EV to earn CARB approval, increasing its global availability.
Moke International, the owner of the iconic 1964 European ‘Moke’ trademark, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the world’s first low-volume EV manufacturer to receive approval from the California Air Resources Board (CARB). This unprecedented endorsement not only validates the environmental Moke’s green credentials but also opens the door for nationwide availability in the US.
CARB, the state agency responsible for regulating air pollution in California, has played a pivotal role in developing emissions standards and promoting clean air initiatives since its establishment in 1967. CARB’s approval is a prerequisite for the sale of vehicles and fuels in California, effectively setting the standard for the rest of the US.
“CARB approval for an EV by a low-volume manufacturer is a huge milestone,” said Nick English, Executive Chairman of Moke International, “One that enables us to bring the Electric Moke to every State in the US, and that’s just the start for us and our iconic British brand.”
The best of British
The Mini Moke, produced by the British Motor Corporation (BMC) from 1964 to 1993, was originally designed as an inexpensive beach buggy with a simple, minimalist design and a removable roof and doors. Despite its small size, the Moke gained popularity as a fun, easy-to-drive vehicle, particularly in warm climates and tourist destinations. While never a commercial success, the Moke developed a cult following and is now considered an iconic symbol of 1960s British motoring culture.
Now, Moke International is reviving the Moke’s legacy with the introduction of the Electric Moke. Built in the UK using a majority of British and European parts, the Electric Moke is a testament to forward-thinking British engineering and premium craftsmanship. The Electric Moke is still engineered and handcrafted in Northamptonshire, England, just miles away from where the original Mokes were built in the 1960s. The Electric Moke seamlessly blends iconic style of the Mini Moke with cutting-edge technology, offering an average charge time of just four hours and a top speed of 50 mph.
The Moke’s Hollywood-status is well-established, with the vehicle making appearances in four James Bond movies. It was also the preferred mode of transport for music legends such as The Beatles and The Beach Boys, and was immortalized by Brigitte Bardot in St Tropez. Today, the Electric Moke is at home in some of the most prestigious hotels, resorts, and private collections worldwide. With the CARB approval, the Electric Moke is now available for sale in all 50 US states, and deliveries to customers in California and New York will commence from April 2025.
Moke International’s global expansion continues with the Electric Moke now available in six countries, including where the brand’s partnership with Suncar SAS further enhances the customization options for European customers, allowing them to personalize their Electric Mokes.
“France has always played a significant role in the Moke story,” said Robin Kennedy, Chief Commercial Officer of Moke International. “From the bustling streets of Paris to the sun-soaked Riviera, where Brigitte Bardot immortalised our cars, the spirit of Moke has continuously resonated here. Now, by partnering with Suncar, we can offer even more ways for customers to personalise their Electric Mokes and create something truly unique. It’s an exciting time as we set our sights on the next chapter of Moke.”
The brand celebrated its 60th birthday at the Paris Motor Show with 60 build slots specifically for prospective customers wanting to be part of its heritage.
Winning the triple
In addition to the CARB approval, the Electric Moke has also received the necessary approvals from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), making it the first and only low-volume EV manufacturer in the US to hold all three regulatory approvals.
“CARB approval proves not only our commitment to building vehicles that reflect our brand’s heritage, but ones that meet the highest safety and environmental standards, too,” said English. “This is an exciting chapter, and we’re thrilled to continue to expand our footprint across the world.”
Moke International’s commitment to honoring its legacy while embracing modern technology was evident in the decision to become the first heritage automotive brand to go fully electric with the launch of the Electric Moke in 2022. This integration of state-of-the-art driving technologies while preserving the timeless design that made the brand popular in the first place, positions Moke International as a trailblazer in the low-volume EV market.
