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Watt’ll they think of next?

Riley Riley

Why do electric cars all look so goofy?

Sometimes it seems as if designers set out to make them as geeky as possible.

Not so with the latest electric sports coupe from the British Watt Electric Vehicle Company (WEVC).

The WEVC Coupe’s all-new composite body is inspired by the legendary 1955 Porsche 356a.

But all exterior surfaces have been subtly changed to optimise aerodynamic efficiency and to accommodate the state-of-the-art bonded aluminium chassis and bespoke suspension.

Inside, the entirely new cabin exudes beautifully crafted simplicity, using premium-grade lightweight materials while also providing the range of creature comforts expected in a modern vehicle such as air-conditioning and mobile connectivity.

Carving out an entirely new niche, the two-seater, rear-wheel drive, mid-motor-mounted WEVC Coupe combines retro looks with the very latest in lightweight, sophisticated EV architecture, creating an engaging, real-world sports car — yet one that conforms to modern safety standards.

 

Under the skin is WEVC’s in-house developed EV platform, called PACES.

Made from bonded aluminium, it features an integrated battery enclosure built into the primary chassis as opposed to a separate battery case, allowing the entire platform to be lightweight and very structurally efficient.

With near 50:50 weight distribution, a kerbweight of less than 1000kg and double wishbone suspension, the WEVC Coupe puts the driver first, majoring on carefully-honed ride, handling and steering characteristics.

Power comes from a 40kWh lithium-ion battery, while the mid-mounted electric motor in Launch Edition vehicles will provide 120kW.

Over the last 10 months, WEVC has carried out extensive prototype testing and further refinements will continue to be made over the coming year.

WEVC simulation models, validated during testing and development, predict production specification cars will have a WLTP range of approximately 370km, with the Launch Edition able to accelerate from 0-100km/h in just over five seconds.

WEVC’s founder Neil Yates said the company wanted to build a light, engaging sports car, at the opposite end of the spectrum from the current trend toward hugely powerful, fast accelerating, but heavy electric supercars.

“The WEVC Coupe’s focus is on engaging the driver, providing enjoyment in real-world situations from city streets to B-roads.

“With double wishbone suspension, 16-inch wheels and 60-profile tyres, it has a comfortable ride, excellent steering response and a handling balance that is entertaining and exploitable, rather than chasing outright lateral grip.

WEVC Coupe’s advanced development phase will continue over the coming months ahead of a full production car reveal in late summer.

Manufacturing will begin at WEVC’s home in Cornwall in November with first deliveries set for early 2022.

Each WEVC Coupe can be individually tailored to a customer’s tastes, with the 21 120kW Launch Edition Coupes starting at £81,250 — about $146,362 Aussie dollars.

 

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Riley