The Watt Electric Vehicle Company (WEVC) is set to redefine premium electric sports cars with its classic-inspired Coupe model. Rather than create a futuristically styled modern vehicle WEVC have created a retro-looking zero-emissions car.
The Coupe is a two-seater, rear-wheel drive with a mid-motor-mounted. It uses the latest lightweight, sophisticated electric vehicle architecture to create a truly modern classic that conforms to today’s safety standards.
Under the skin is WEVC’s in-house developed electric platform called PACES. Made from bonded aluminium, it features an integrated battery enclosure built into the primary chassis as opposed to a separate battery case.
This structure allows the entire platform to be lightweight and structurally efficient, while the whole powertrain and chassis combination meets ISO regulations and European Small Series Type Approval crash requirements.
With near 50:50 weight distribution, a kerb-weight of less than 1,000kg and double wishbone suspension, the WEVC Coupe puts the driver first. It focuses on a carefully dialled ride with good handling and steering characteristics. Power comes from a 40kWh lithium-ion battery, while the mid-mounted electric motor in Launch Edition vehicles will provide 120kW (160 horsepower).
From simulation models, validated during testing and development, WEVC predicts production specification cars will have a range of around 230 miles (370km). The 120kW Launch Edition Coupes will be able to accelerate from 0-62mph (0-100kph) in just over five seconds.
The Coupe’s all-new composite body is inspired by the legendary 1955 Porsche 356a. However, all exterior surfaces are subtly different to optimise aerodynamic efficiency and house the state-of-the-art bonded aluminium chassis and bespoke suspension.
Inside, the entirely new cabin majors on beautifully executed simplicity, using premium-grade lightweight materials, while providing the range of creature comforts expected in a modern vehicle. These include as air-conditioning and mobile connectivity.
Neil Yates, founder and owner of WEVC, said: “It is our first model and the first to utilise our PACES modular electric vehicles architecture, which will underpin many next-generation specialist passenger and commercial electric cars.
“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.
“With compact dimensions, superb packaging and a tight turning circle, we envision the WEVC Coupe being just as at home in the centre of London or cruising along an A-road, as it is on a twisty B-road.”
The WEVC Coupe’s advanced development phase will continue over the coming months, ahead of a full production car reveal in late summer. Manufacturing will begin at WEVC’s home in Cornwall in November with first deliveries in early 2022. Each WEVC Coupe can be individually tailored to a customer’s tastes, with the 21 120kW Launch Edition Coupes starting at £81,250.
