Detroit Electric has long been dropping hints regarding its SP:01 electric vehicle, a sports car that may end up competing with the Tesla Model S in the luxury EV segment. The latest one came just recently, as the new two-seater was teased in a new photo from the startup carmaker.
According to Detroit Electric, the SP:01 has been “aerodynamically optimized,” resulting in a design that allows for a smoother feel when driving at high speeds. The car has a distinct fastback-esque look to it, with a new rear wing and diffuser, plus redesigned hood vents that allow for better air flow into the vehicle’s climate control system. Batteries will be kept safe in case of accidents, as they’ll be housed in an integrated composite casing within the SP:01’s monocoque.
The carmaker went on to stress how different the production SP:01 will be from the concept vehicle that had debuted last year. “The final design of SP:01 incorporates signature Detroit Electric design DNA, carried over from the prototype model we revealed last year,” said Jerry Chung, Detroit Electric head of design. “Coupled with many motorsport visual cues, the new fastback design, bold face and sharp contours evoke the company’s vision of pure electric performance.”
Detroit Electric, despite its definitely American name and homebase, was started by ex-Lotus Cars employees, and with that in mind, reports also note that SP:01 manufacture may be moving to Lotus’ home country of the United Kingdom. The SP:01 will run on a 278-horsepower electric motor, and with the vehicle weighing in at just 2,480 pounds, that should allow it to compete well with the Model S, as its top speed is estimated at a commendable 155 mph.
tftillman says
looks like a Lotus to me.