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A new electric sports car will soon be on sale in America. Built by Detroit Electric, the SP:01 is claimed to set new benchmarks for two-seat all-electric sports cars. This is the first car Detroit Electric has built since 1939 and only 999 examples are planned.

Exterior

The SP:01's carbon fibre body shell has a similar profile to the Lotus Elise, though Detroit Electric has added its own design details. Up front there is a very angular bonnet, bespoke headlamps and two large air intakes. More vents are found in front of the back wheels, while the rear end sports uniquely styled light clusters and a diffuser. The mid-mounted power unit is visible thanks to a see-through cover and the SP:01's hardtop can be removed.

Interior

A blend of leather, carbon fibre and gadgetry is to be found inside the SP:01. The bespoke SAMI infotainment system operates via smartphone apps and controls and monitors everything from satnav and music to battery status and ambient lighting. The system also acts as a hotspot that allows drivers to log in, check charge levels and even switch on the climate control remotely.

Mechanicals

A high-powered electric motor is mounted centrally in the SP:01 delivering 201hp and 225Nm of torque. Thanks to its lightweight construction, this is enough to get the SP:01 from 0-62mph in 3.7 seconds and onto a 155mph top speed. These stats make the new model the fastest two-seat electric sports car in the world according to its maker.

Along with straight line speed, tuned suspension, brakes and steering should make the SP:01 handle as well. In addition, the SP:01 is fitted with four gear ratios to make sure that optimum power is delivered whenever it's needed.

Recharging from empty takes just over four hours, and gives a theoretical range of over 180 miles. Thanks to its unique '360 Powerback' system, the SP:01 can also be used to power a house. When charging, the system can detect a grid-based power failure and gives users the option to restore power to the house from the SP:01's battery pack.

Anything else?

The SP:01 will be on sale in early 2014 with prices starting from the equivalent of £88,000 ($135,000). A three-year/30,000-mile warranty also comes as standard. Made in Detroit, it is unclear at this stage whether the SP:01 will be sold outside of America.

James Giddings - 5 Apr 2013