PUDONG, Shanghai, Dec. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The new 'Classic Moke' is set to be released worldwide but will be starting off in countries like Australia, Thailand, and throughout the Caribbean. In a Joint Venture with Chery Motors and their subsidiary Sicar Automotive Engineering Company, Moke International has decided to initially produce the MOKE as a low volume car with 1000 units per year. Production capacity will grow to an anticipated 1000 units per month after year three with markets throughout South America coming into line.  

The new 'Classic' Moke will retain all of the unique features of the original Moke with items such as engine capacity, braking systems and safety standards have been overhauled and improved on.

The manufacturer, Chery Motors, is the seventh largest China based auto manufacturer and produces over 600,000 vehicles a year. The company is also China's top auto exporter and recently signed a joint venture with Jaguar Land Rover to manufacture their cars in China for future export.

The original Moke was designed and released in 1960 - 1963 as a military vehicle that was light, compact and strong. In 1964 it was first released for public sale in Britain under the names Austin Moke and Morris Moke. In 1966 the first Mokes were produced in Australia under the name BMC MINI MOKE. The MOKE is often called a 'Mini Moke' as it was designed by Sir Alec Issigonis, the same designer as the famous Mini.

In 1977 the Californian Moke was released in Australia with additional features such as Roo bars, Spoked wheels and improved seating. In 1983 the company moved to Portugal before completely stopping production in 1992.

During the 1970's and 80's the Moke produced quite a 'cult' following in Australia and many other countries throughout the world. Since ceasing production in 1992 spare parts became increasingly harder to find, and many Moke enthusiasts became even more fanatical about these vehicles.

Due to their relaxed and fun 'image' the Moke is often seen in coastal areas as a fun recreational vehicle.

In 2012 Chery motors/ Sicar Engineering and Moke International started re-engineering the Moke with new features such as 9" front disc brakes, 3-point seat belts for front and rear seats, modern car suspension technology as well as a fuel injected engine and rust proof body. There are also plans for an Electric eMoke to be released in the near future and more details regarding this will be released soon.

For more information please see the Moke International Website
http://www.mokeinternational.com
or the online brochure http://www.mokeinternational.com/images/MOKE%202013%20e-brochure.pdf
or email moke@mokeinternational.com
or call +86 21 20803265

Photos:
http://www.prlog.org/12039633

SOURCE Moke International