Morgan has teamed up with Zytek and other British technology partners to develop a 'high performance electric sports car prototype'. Two Morgan +E engineering concept vehicles will be shown early next year.

The project will see Morgan's aluminium alloy chassis from the Aero Supersports combined with an electric motor from Zytek. Unusually for an electric vehicle the motor will drive through a manual gearbox. Using a transmission in this way is claimed to provide better performance and increase the range. It should also please keen drivers by making the car more involving to drive.

Power is stored in lithium-ion batteries, which feed a 94bhp, 221lb.ft electric motor. The powertrain is said to be compact enough to fit inside the Morgan's transmission tunnel.

According to Morgan there is the potential for zero emissions with 'near supercar performance'. If there is demand and other factors prove favourable then the concept will receive further development.

Funding for the Morgan +E has come in part from a grant of £100,000 from the Niche Vehicle Network CR&D Programme. Managed by CENEX this provides funding for niche manufacturers to develop vehicles with lower carbon emissions.

John Lambert - 19 Aug 2011