Vanderhall Motor Works may be best known for its quirky three-wheel roadsters, but its latest creation shows the American brand’s wilder side. Built in Ohio, the Brawley GT is a fully electric off-roader designed to prove that EVs can be every bit as thrilling and capable as their petrol-powered counterparts.

Roughly the size of a Baja buggy, the Brawley resembles a downsized Jeep Wrangler with extra muscle. Power comes from four in-wheel electric motors producing a combined 404 hp and 662 Nm of torque, delivering instant response and impressive traction across loose terrain. A 40 kWh lithium-ion battery provides up to 225 km of range — enough for a full day of exploring off the beaten path.

Despite its rugged intent, comfort hasn’t been forgotten. The sealed, climate-controlled cabin seats four adults and includes heated seats, air conditioning, a Bluetooth sound system, and even a fixed moonroof. Traditionalists will appreciate the absence of touchscreens; instead, toggle switches and analogue dials handle all the key controls, maintaining a satisfyingly tactile feel.

Long-travel suspension, generous ground clearance, and underbody protection make it ready for everything from rocky trails to desert dunes. Unfortunately, the Brawley GTS isn’t road legal — at least for now — and remains exclusive to the US market, priced from US$49,950. Still, it’s a bold reminder that electric adventure can be every bit as exciting as the roar of combustion.