The Electric MOKE Californian is now available to order via MOKE International’s new U.S website with prices starting at $41,900.

Customers can reserve a build slot for a refundable fee of $990, but with sales limited to 325 cars per year they will need to act swiftly to avoid disappointment. Having announced it was returning to America after 40 years of being away, MOKE International has already received strong interest in the new Electric MOKE Californian.

U.S. Sales will be limited to 325 cars a year in accordance with the 2015 Low Volume Motor Vehicles Manufacturers Act. After seven years of lobbying from Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) implemented legislation that allows heritage brands to produce derivatives of any of their models that are over 25 years old, but comply with current Federal safety standards for motor vehicle equipment.

The new Electric MOKE Californian is a faster, more powerful and, crucially, emissions-free reinvigoration of the original car that sold in the U.S between 1977-1982. The Electric MOKE Californian accelerates from 0-34mph (55kph) in 4.3 seconds, while its petrol-powered ancestor achieved the same sprint in around 6.3 seconds. Power is up from 39hp to 44hp.

This limited-run version – only available to buy in the U.S. – also features bespoke styling cues such as the ‘Californian’ name badge and specially designed MOKE logos.

Isobel Dando, CEO MOKE International, said: “The interest in the Electric MOKE Californian since we announced its return has been huge, although perhaps not surprising considering how popular the original car was. We are thrilled to be able to offer American customers a genuine MOKE vehicle once again.”

Hand-built in the UK, the Electric MOKE Californian has a range of up to 80 miles (120km)* – enough to cruise Route 101 down to Malibu Beach from Santa Barbara – and a top speed of 50mph (80kph), which makes it legal to drive on the highway; this is the first time a highway legal version of the Mini Moke has ever gone on sale in the U.S. A full charge takes four hours on a US Type 1 charger.

Just like the Electric MOKE that is on sale in Europe, the Electric MOKE Californian is a reimagination of the 1964 Mini Moke – MOKE International owns the original 1964 British Motor Corporation MOKE trademarks and is recognized in over 100 jurisdictions as the owner of the MOKE brand.

Since its birth the Mini Moke stood as an emblem of fun and freedom, beloved for decades in coastal locations such as the French Riviera thanks to its open-top design and go-anywhere attitude. Using an electric powertrain, the Electric MOKE and Electric MOKE Californian now play a part in keeping these beautiful locations clean. MOKE International is the first 1960s automotive brand to go 100% electric.