LOW volume British sports car manufacturer The Healey Sprite Motor Company has outlined plans to launch a light 4x4 utility vehicle. Named Workhorse, drivetrain and chassis are to be sourced from India, while the bodyshell and interior are to be designed and assembled at the firm's Maidenhead plant.

Fleet NewsNet understands the major components are based on the Mercedes G-Wagen. A prototype is to appear alongside the company's new hand-built Healey Sprite roadster at the British International Motor Show next month. The 4x4 is subject to type approval, but company spokesman Adam Bevan said it was hoped to start full production in January next year.