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Nothing escapes the electric route, it would seem. Morgan Motor Company, working together with British specialist companies Zytek and Radshape, is developing a high-performance electric sportscar prototype. The Morgan +E project, as it’s called, will see two concept vehicles coming about in early 2012.
Both vehicles will be based on a development of Morgan’s Aero Supersport’s aluminium chassis, with the 4.8 litre BMW V8 mill in the former being replaced by a new Zytek high power-density electric powertrain driving through a conventional manual gearbox.
The prototype Morgan will use a new derivative of Zytek’s proven 70 kW (94 hp), 300Nm electric powertrain, which is already supplied to US vehicle manufacturers. The compact, lightweight unit will be installed in the transmission tunnel and will require just three additional connections, these being cooling water as well as both high voltage and low voltage electrics.
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Power will come from a lithium-ion battery pack integrated into the vehicle’s aluminium structure. The powertrain and batteries will be mounted in a bonded and riveted aluminium chassis evolved from the Supersports range, and constructed by precision metal former Radshape.
An unusual feature of the rear-wheel drive vehicle will be that drive from the electric motor is taken through the standard manual gearbox. Keeping the motor in its sweet spot will help it use energy more efficiently, which will increase the vehicle’s range, Zytek says.
Going the stick shift route will also allow for the provision of lower gearing for rapid acceleration from pull-away as well as higher gearing for top speed, the company adds, and will make the car more engaging for keen drivers. Ah, yes, an electric Morgan. Not quite sure how the anoraks will take to it.
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Yes sir Electric vehicle still need a giant Radiator grille!