Geneva Motor Show: All-electric three-wheeler sportscar Morgan EV3 unveiled

The Morgan EV3, the first all-electric series production car in the company's history, has been revealed at the Geneva motor show.

Based on the successful three-wheeler sports car, the EV3 swaps the three-wheeler’s 80bhp V-twin engine for a 62bhp electric motor, which is fed by a lithium battery and promises a zero-emissions range of 241 km.

Despite the addition of a heavy electric powertrain, the EV3 weighs less than 500kg – a significant reduction on the 525kg of the standard three-wheeler. Part of that saving is due to new lightweight carbonfibre composite body panels. Morgan says the new car can reach 100kph in less than 9sec, with a top speed of more than 145kph. In comparison, the three-wheeler reaches 100kph in 8sec, with a top speed of around 185kph.

The interior of the EV3 features a classic ‘magneto’ switch for drive selection, a digital screen and wood, brass and polished aluminium trim.

A pre-production version of the EV3 was revealed at the Goodwood Festival of Speed last year, but Morgan says it is now ready to start the last stages of testing for the new car ahead of production beginning in Q4 of this year. A group of 10 customers in the UK and Holland will provide feedback for the final car.

Announcing the EV3, Morgan said the car “looks at the world of zero emissions motoring from an entirely different perspective, what if an all-electric vehicle was bespoke, hand crafted and exhilarating to drive? The EV3 embraces new technology, delivers responsible driving excitement and continues to celebrate traditional British craftsmanship.”

Morgan’s managing director Steve Morris said: “The EV3 is an exciting opportunity for our customers to enjoy the unique Morgan driving experience and the joy of tailored manufacture while remaining conscientious towards the future of our planet.”

Morgan says the EV3 will be priced "comparably" with the three-wheeler, which currently starts at £25,950 (Rs 24.67 lakh).

Also on display in Geneva is a special 80th anniversary edition of Morgan’s staple 4/4. Having been originally launched in 1936, the 4/4 is billed as the longest running production car in the world. Just 80 examples will be made, and will feature solid wheels, bespoke paintwork, a side exit sports exhaust, new exterior details and new personalization options. The prices will start at £39,996 (Rs 38.02 lakh).