UK-based Watt Electric Vehicle Company (WEVC) wants to “redefine premium electric sports cars” with its first model, the Coupe.
Available to order from £81,250 (equaling to $112,731 at current exchange rates) locally for the Launch Edition that is limited to 21 units, with customer deliveries said to begin early next year, it was built around an in-house developed platform, named ‘Paces’.
The two-seater, rear-wheel drive vehicle is, according to WEVC, a “carefully-honed ride” with emphasis on “handling and steering characteristics”. It features bespoke suspension with double wishbones, 16-inch wheels wrapped in 60-profile tires, has a curb weight of less than 1,000 kg (2,205 lbs) and a near perfect 50:50 weight distribution.
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The mid-mounted electric motor, which generates 161 HP (163 PS / 120 kW) in the Launch Edition, is fed by a 40 kWh lithium-ion battery that will enable a WLTP range of around 230 miles (370 km). The boutique carmaker estimates the 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration at just over 5 seconds.
“The Coupe represents two firsts for Watt Electric Vehicle Company. It is our very first model – and the first to utilize our Paces modular EV architecture, which will underpin many next-generation specialist passenger and commercial EVs”, said WEVC founder and owner, Neil Yates. “With our debut vehicle we wanted to build a light, engaging sports car, at the opposite end of the spectrum from the current trend toward hugely powerful, fast accelerating, but heavy electric supercars.”
If you think the Coupe looks like a Porsche, you’re not wrong, because the body was inspired by the 1955 356a. However, the panels were reshaped in order to improve aerodynamics. It also has air conditioning and smartphone connectivity. And while the sketch shows three pedals, actual photos of the chassis include two.
WEVC will continue developing the Coupe over the next few months. The official unveiling will take place in late summer and production will commence in November in Cornwall.