Summary
- U.K.-based Longbow is developing lightweight electric sports cars, an open-top Speedster and Roadster coupe
- The targeted curb weight is 2,200 pounds for both models, emphasizing the importance of weight reduction
- The Speedster and Roadster target 0-62 mph times of 3.5 and 3.6 seconds, respectively
- Prices start at 84,995 British pounds for the Speedster and 64,995 British pounds for the Roadster
- Other British companies, such as Caterham, are also developing electric sports cars with a focus on minimalism and performance.
Article
A U.K.-based startup called Longbow has unveiled plans to develop two lightweight electric sports cars, the Speedster and Roadster coupe. The company aims to keep the weight of these cars to a minimum, with a targeted curb weight of just 2,200 pounds. The Speedster is expected to have a 0-62 mph time of 3.5 seconds, while the Roadster is estimated to do the same run in 3.6 seconds. Both models are projected to have a range of 275-280 miles. The prices for the Speedster start at 84,995 British pounds and 64,995 British pounds for the Roadster.
Longbow was founded in 2023 and is led by Jenny Keisu, who has a background in private equity, and Daniel Davey and Mark Tapscott, both with some auto industry experience. Davey has worked at Tesla and Lucid, while Tapscott has worked at automakers like Tesla and BYD. The company plans to limit Speedster production to 150 units and has not disclosed the production run for the Roadster. Both models will have Luminary 1st Edition and Autograph Edition specials as their first examples.
Longbow is not the only British company working on an electric sports car with a back-to-basics approach. Caterham, known for the minimalist Seven, unveiled its Project V concept in 2023 and is working with Yamaha to develop a production version. The Project V is slightly heavier than Longbow’s target weight but may be priced more affordably. Both companies are tapping into the demand for electric sports cars with a focus on lightweight design and performance.
The aluminum chassis developed by Longbow is key to achieving the lightweight goal for the Speedster and Roadster models. The design is inspired by classic British sports cars, with a minimalist approach to keep weight down. The company is taking a unique approach to the electric sports car market, aiming to deliver a high-performance driving experience with a focus on agility and responsiveness. By targeting a niche market of enthusiasts looking for a lightweight sports car, Longbow hopes to carve out a place for itself in the competitive electric vehicle landscape.
Reservations for the Speedster and Roadster models are currently open in the U.K., with plans to launch the cars in 2026. Longbow has not disclosed availability in other markets yet. The company’s unique approach to lightweight electric sports cars has generated interest in the industry, with comparisons being drawn to other established companies like Caterham. With a focus on performance and range, Longbow aims to provide a compelling option for consumers looking for a fun and efficient driving experience in an electric sports car. As the market for electric vehicles continues to grow, startups like Longbow are bringing fresh ideas and innovations to the industry.
Read the full article here
