You won’t know the Meyers Manx identify, however you positively know its form.
This is the unique seaside buggy: designed within the Nineteen Sixties as a no-frills, Beetle-based interest automobile that could possibly be assembled cheaply at house. It is, in case you like, America’s tackle the Caterham.
It’s the brainchild of the legendary Bruce Meyers, who accomplished his first automobile in 1964 and was 94 when he and spouse Winnie lastly retired in 2020, and continued to contribute to its story till he died a yr later.
“We got some time with him before he passed, which was great,” says Michael Potiker, a accomplice at Trousdale Ventures – the enterprise capital agency “that’s basically incubating Meyers Manx”, having acquired it from Bruce in 2020.
“He wasn’t ill when we did the deal. It wasn’t something we needed to get done because he was going to pass away. It seemed like he was going to live forever. He had that vibe to him,” says Potiker.
Meyers’ authentic firm, BF Meyers & Co, was really a comparatively short-lived enterprise, folding in 1971 after simply seven years because of monetary points.
He resurrected the identify in 2000 when he based Meyers Manx Inc and restarted manufacturing of his Beetle-based creations, including the longer-wheelbase Manxter 2+2 and Dualsport, and the new-look (effectively, newer) Manx Kick-out, constructing the corporate’s profile over the subsequent twenty years and establishing a group of loyal clients and followers.
Potiker says Trousdale founder – and now Meyers chairman – Phillip Sarofim “grew up driving Manx buggies and always had an affinity for them”.
When Potiker had his first go, he was rapidly offered on the Manx’s broad attraction, which transcends social class and has turn out to be virtually as recognisable and beloved because the Beetle on which it’s based mostly.
He says: “When I drove the car around downtown San Diego, I was getting thumbs up from everybody on the street, and then I took it to an upscale area and it was the same thumbs up. It’s a classless car.”
On August 23, 2023, Ian Bainbridge, a well-known classic motorcycle racer, tragically lost his life in a crash during a qualifying session for the 2023 Manx Grand Prix (MGP). He was 69 years old.
The incident took place in Kirk Michael village, just north of Peel, during Bainbridge’s first lap of his first qualifying session for the 2023 MGP. Following the crash, the qualifying session was immediately stopped and eventually canceled.
Bainbridge began racing on the Mountain Course in 2005 and had been a regular participant in classic motorcycle racing ever since. According to event organizers, he had only missed two MGP events from 2005 to 2023. His best result came in 2010 when he finished eighth in the Classic Senior Manx GP.
Hailing from Barnard Castle, Bainbridge leaves behind a loving family and friends who cherished him. His daughter, Victoria, expressed their grief, saying, “He was doing what he loved, and we have been told he would not have suffered, which is a small comfort at this time. I don’t really know what to say other than he will be sorely missed with his big smile and daft sense of humor as a dad, a son, a husband, a grandfather, and a friend.”
Victoria also mentioned that the family may not be engaging with messages on social media for a while, but they would appreciate any photos and memories of Bainbridge shared by those who loved him. She believes that when the family is ready, they will treasure these heartfelt tributes.
The racing community, including fellow racers, fans, and classic motorcycle racing clubs, have been sharing their condolences and tributes to Bainbridge on social media. It is evident that he was widely respected and admired within the racing community.
Tragically, Bainbridge’s death marks the second fatality during the 2023 Manx Grand Prix qualifying week, following the passing of Gary Vines at the beginning of the same week. We extend our deepest condolences to Bainbridge’s family, friends, colleagues, and fans during this incredibly difficult time.
The Meyers Manx is back and better than ever as an electric vehicle, proving that going electric doesn’t mean sacrificing fun and excitement.
The Meyers Manx 2.0 embodies joy, simplicity, and purity, offering a carefree and unburdened lifestyle that serves as a sanctuary from the demands of the modern world.
The Manx 2.0 design closely follows in the footsteps of the original, paying homage to its roots while incorporating modern updates. It offers up to 300 miles of range and impressive performance, showcasing innovative engineering and technology.
Following in the footsteps of automakers reviving vintage cars with electric powertrains, a classic icon from the 1960s is proving that going electric doesn’t mean sacrificing fun and excitement. The Meyers Manx, originally known for its fiberglass dune buggies, has made a remarkable comeback in the form of the Meyers Manx Roadster and Buggy. This revival, under the stewardship of Phillip Sarofim’s Trousdale Ventures, breathes new life into the spirit of Bruce Meyers’ vision.
Back in the 1960s, Bruce Meyers created the first-ever fiberglass body dune buggy, driven by a simple yet profound desire for fun and adventure. Before his passing in 2021, Meyers ensured that his beloved company would thrive in the hands of Trousdale Ventures, led by passionate vehicle enthusiast Phillip Sarofim and visionary designer Freeman Thomas. Now, more than half a century later, the Meyers Manx is back on the road, embracing electric power while staying true to its core ethos of delivering “More Smiles Per Mile.” It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of fun, simplicity, and innovation in the world of electric vehicles.
The Meyers Manx 2.0, often referred to as the “reimagined buggy,” emerges as a true embodiment of joy, simplicity, and purity through its ingenious design. This small, lightweight marvel is more than just a vehicle; it’s a symbol of a carefree and unburdened lifestyle. Phillip Sarofim, the visionary chairman of Meyers Manx, passionately affirms that the essence of Meyers Manx has always revolved around these very ideals. Joy, simplicity, and purity are at the core of its DNA.
According to the manufacturers, these ideals are the remedy for life’s complexities, a sanctuary from the demands of the modern world. This idea perfectly captures Meyers Manx 2.0’s attitude, which both carries on and strengthens these valued ideals. Sarofim’s enthusiasm is infectious as he expounds on the legacy of the Meyers Manx. This revival not only pays homage to its heritage but also taps into the unbridled optimism that permeated 1960s California culture. It’s a nostalgia-fueled journey back to a time when life was simpler and the open road was an invitation to adventure – a sentiment that resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds.
What sets the Manx 2.0 apart is its authenticity. It’s not just a concept or a showpiece; it’s a real car. You can take it anywhere, anytime, with the assurance of licensing and insurance. With its top and side curtains securely in place, it transforms into a snug and watertight cocoon suitable for any weather. It’s versatile, too—equipped with snow tires, it fearlessly conquers blizzards, and with super-balloon tires, it effortlessly dances across dunes. Swap in racing tires, and it defines the limits of sports car performance.
The unveiling of the EV Meyers Manx 2.0 is like a heartwarming reunion with an old friend from the 1960s. This vehicle is a bridge connecting us to the optimism and spirit of that era. When the renowned designer Freeman Thomas took the reins of the revived Meyers Manx in 2020, enthusiasts held their breath, wondering if he could capture the essence of the original. Now that the new EV Manx has been revealed, it’s abundantly clear that Thomas was the perfect choice. This modern variant has a refined charm while maintaining the distinctive Manx DNA. It easily balances the past and present in a delightful fusion of modernity and nostalgia. What’s truly exciting is the homage it pays to its roots—a subtle nod to the legendary air-cooled VW Beetle.
To appreciate this homage fully, we must revisit the origins of the Manx and its creator, Bruce Meyers. As an artist at heart, Meyers crafted the Manx with meticulous attention to detail. He aimed to infuse emotion, fun, and practicality, all while adhering to mechanical constraints. The result was a vehicle that radiated playfulness and adventure. The Manx’s design was so groundbreaking that it spawned countless imitations, yet none could quite capture its magic. It was a victim of its perfection. The EV Meyers Manx 2.0 acknowledges this legacy and wisely chooses to update rather than reinvent the wheel.
One remarkable feature of the commitment to tradition is the shared front axle with the original Beetle. Yes, you read that right—the same double torsion-beam front axle that has been propelling Beetles since 1938 finds a new home in this electric marvel. It’s a masterwork proving that if something isn’t broken, there’s no need to fix it. While Meyers Manx suggests that the only shared component with the original is the headlight housing, the familiar front axle tells a different story. Perhaps it has undergone some refinement, but its essence remains intact.
The Manx 2.0 Electric is a technological marvel revival. With two battery options on the table, it offers a unique blend of performance and range. The all-aluminum monocoque contributes to the new-generation Manx’s weight of 1,500 pounds with a smaller battery and 1,650 pounds with a larger battery. The first option boasts a 20.0-kWh battery, promising an impressive 150 miles of range. The second, even more tantalizing, packs a 40.0-kWh battery, doubling the range to a remarkable 300 miles. These numbers may seem audacious, considering the established benchmarks in the electric vehicle world, like the Chevy Bolt EV.
Meyers Manx 2.0’s Specs
With Small Battery Pack
With Large Battery Pack
Powertrain
Electric motor
Electric motor
Battery
20 kWh
40 kWh
Weight
1,500 pounds
1,650 pounds
Range
150 miles
300 miles
Horsepower
N/A
202 horsepower
Torque
N/A
240 pound-feet
0-60 mph
N/A
4.5 seconds
To put it in perspective, the Manx 2.0 achieves its remarkable efficiency feats despite its knobby tires and an open cabin that would typically hinder aerodynamics. While precise power specs for the smaller battery are still under wraps, the larger option delivers a hefty punch with 202 horsepower and a torque surge of up to 240 pound-feet, channeled to the rear wheels through two motors. This translates to swift acceleration, propelling you from 0 to 60 miles per hour in a projected 4.5 seconds. A noteworthy feature is the compact integration of the motor, inverter, gear train, and brakes into a single unit demonstrating the innovative engineering prowess behind the Manx 2.0.
Meanwhile, The Manx 2.0 Electric Is For A Select Few
Meyers Manx
Meyers will begin with 50 Manx 2.0 units for a select few customers
Delivery is scheduled for later in 2023
The official reveal of the Manx 2.0 electric took place on Monday, August 8, in the sun-soaked enclave of Malibu, California. This private event served as a sneak peek before the Manx 2.0 Electric’s grand debut at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering. What truly sets the Manx 2.0 Electric apart is not just its iconic design but also its environmentally conscious ethos. Meyers Manx has joined forces with a U.S.-based manufacturing partner to commence production in 2023, with the final assembly set to take place right here in California. This decision reflects a dedication to local craftsmanship and sustainable practices. But the excitement doesn’t stop there.
The Meyers Manx Beta program is poised to delight enthusiasts, with the first 50 cars scheduled for delivery to select customers in 2023. This exclusive group of early adopters will play a pivotal role in shaping the production version by providing valuable feedback to the development team. It’s a remarkable opportunity for these pioneers to actively contribute to the evolution of an automotive icon.
Meyers Manx became famous in the 1960s for creating the original fiberglass dune buggy. Now, the company has released its first all-new vehicle in almost 60 years – the Manx 2.0, an electric take on the dune buggy. The Manx 2.0 was developed alongside the Resorter NEV and shares many components with it. The Resorter NEV offers more power than a typical neighborhood vehicle and can handle larger, hillier terrain with its high-torque engine and rugged wheels. It also has quick acceleration and towing capabilities, making it ideal for hotels and shuttle services.
The Resorter NEV features a twin-motor electric drivetrain powered by pouch-cell lithium-ion batteries. It has a four-wheel independent wishbone suspension and an aluminum monocoque chassis. The vehicle is equipped with power steering, regenerative braking, and comes with a detachable roof, foldable windshield, and zip-down window doors. It also has standard heating and A/C, providing comfort in all weather conditions.
The Resorter NEV offers a smart dashboard, advanced LED lighting, and customizable interior materials, front seat designs, and exterior colors. It aims to deliver the same luxury and quality engineering found in the Manx 2.0 buggy, which has a retail price of $74,000. Hinrich J. Woebcken, a Meyers Manx board member, stated, “With the rebirth of this iconic automotive brand, I’m immersed in the process of engineering and industrialization for a quality customer experience.”
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