Detroit Electric SP:01 unveiled

Almost three-quarters of a century after production ceased, the Detroit Electric brand has been resurrected. The Michigan-based firm is planning a new range of electric cars, the first of which is the two-seat SP:01.

If the SP:01 looks similar to the Tesla Roadster, that’s because both are based on an aluminium Lotus chassis. The bodywork is made from carbon fibre, which helps to keep the weight down to just 1,067 kg (2,354 lbs).

Detroit Electric SP:01 (2013) Front Side

Of course, a lack of bulk should mean better handling, performance and range. With power coming from a mid-mounted 201 bhp (150 kW / 203 PS) electric motor, the SP:01 can accelerate from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) in a very impressive 3.7 seconds, before going on to a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

Unusually for an electric car, drive is sent to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual gearbox. An automatic transmission is on the options list, though.

Feeding the motor is a 37 kWh battery pack that delivers a range of over 180 miles (290 kilometres) according to the New European Driving Cycle test. Reasonable enough, however it’s not known to what extent that figure suffers if the SP:01 is driven to its full potential. Replenishing the battery takes an acceptable 4.3 hours using a bespoke ‘360 Powerback’ domestic recharging unit.

Production of the SP:01 begins this August, but Detroit Electric only intends to build 999 examples. Prices will start from $135,000 (around £88,700 / €104,500 at current exchange rates) including a three-year warranty. The battery guarantee can be further extended to five years, but rather meanly that’s a cost option.

Detroit Electric SP:01 (2013) RearDetroit Electric SP:01 (2013) Front

Detroit Electric SP:01 (2013) SideDetroit Electric SP:01 (2013) Rear Side

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Volkswagen e-Up! revealed
2013 Euro-spec Nissan Leaf
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