What's all this about?
Detroit Electric, a nameplate last seen in 1939, is readying its all-electric, two-seat sports car for sale in 2015 and has finalised the rear-end design of the machine, called the SP:01.
This car looks familiar - have we seen it before?
Yes, and in two different ways. Firstly, the prototype of the Detroit Electric SP:01 was debuted at the 2013 Shanghai Motor Show, where the Detroit Electric had a rear screen flanked by flying buttresses. And secondly, you can't fail to notice the resemblance to a Lotus Elise S2...
Is there a reason for that?
Again yes, as in 2008 Detroit Electric was founded by former Lotus CEO Albert Lam. The SP:01 is his company's attempt at having the fastest production electric sports car in the world, with the vehicle being built in the UK, despite the company being headquartered in the eponymous US city.
The fastest electric sports car in the world?
Apparently, the SP:01 can do 0-60mph in just 3.7 seconds and go on to 155mph.
So what's new here?
It now has a fastback rear end, sculpted using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to ensure the most slippery shape, as well as a new rear wing and diffuser, some changes to the air ducts at the front and in the bonnet, plus a composite casing for its batteries that forms part of the SP:01's structure.
Can I find out more about Detroit Electric?
You can, by going to www.detroit-electric.com.
Matt Robinson - 30 Oct 2014