An electric sportscar with a five-speed manual gearbox has been designed by Morgan with the support of
British technology specialists Zytek and Radshape. Shown as a concept to test market reaction, the radical new
roadster could enter production if there is sufficient demand.
“We wanted to see how much fun you can have in an electric sportscar, so we have built one to help us find
out,” explained Morgan operations director Steve Morris. “The Plus E combines Morgan’s traditional look with
high-technology construction and a powertrain that delivers substantial torque instantly at any speed. With
the manual gearbox to increase both touring range and driver involvement, it will be a fantastic car to drive.”
The Plus E is based on a tailored version of Morgan’s lightweight aluminium platform chassis clothed in the
revised ‘traditional’ body from the new BMW V8-powered Plus 8, also launched at Geneva. Power is delivered
by a new derivative of Zytek’s 70kW (94bhp) 300Nm electric engine, which is already proven with US vehicle
manufacturers.
Mounted in the transmission tunnel, the Zytek unit drives the rear wheels through a conventional five-speed
manual gearbox. The clutch is retained, but because the motor provides torque from zero speed the driver can
choose to leave it engaged when coming to rest and pulling away, driving the car like a conventional automatic.
“A multi-speed transmission allows the motor to spend more time operating in its sweet spot, where it uses
energy more efficiently, particularly at high road speeds,” explained Zytek Automotive managing director
Neil Heslington. “It also allows us to provide lower gearing for rapid acceleration and will make the car more
engaging for keen drivers.”The programme will deliver two engineering concept vehicles. The first, with the five-speed manual box and Liion batteries, will be used for preliminary engineering assessment while the second will be closer to potential
production specification, with alternative battery technologies and possibly a sequential gearbox.
“The superb capability of the finished car reflects the passion with which the Zytek team has applied their
considerable expertise,” adds Morris. “The project is a true collaboration aimed at delivering as much driving
pleasure as possible in a zero emissions vehicle. It worked really well, with aluminium fabrication specialist
Radshape paying particular attention to retaining chassis stiffness and weight distribution to ensure excellent
dynamics and ride quality with good steering feel.”
The collaborative research and development project is part-funded by a £100,000 grant from the UK
Government’s Niche Vehicle Network Programme, which is managed by CENEX to promote the development
and commercialisation of new low-carbon vehicle technologies.
70kW Zytek E Drive
Manual 5 spd
70kw (94bhp)
380Nm (280lb/ft)
6.0 seconds
115mph (185kph)
315 bhp / tonne
120miles (193km)
0.0 g/km (at tailpipe)
4010mm
1751mm
1220mm
N/A
Aluminium bonded+rivetted