Bluebird to launch electric DC50 sportscar

The Bluebird name is more associated with land speed records than road cars, but a limited run of just 50 Bluebird electric sportscars will be built to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Donald Campbell’s land and water speed records.

Don Wales, grandson of Sir Malcolm Campbell and nephew of Donald Campbell, brought the idea to life. The sketch shown shows the Bluebird DC50 - proposed by Don - and is to be showcased at the Sustainable MotoExpo at the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, Hampshire in September.

To be unveiled alongside the DC50 is the GTL electric racing car, which has been designed to adhere to technical regulations for the forthcoming FIA Formula E series due to start in 2014.

The Bluebird DC50 will be powered by a 360bhp electric drivetrain. And while no performance figures have been announced, Bluebird promises ‘acceleration to match a Porsche’. The DC50 will also feature electrically operated scissor doors and a range of up to 200 miles is claimed, depending on specification. Naturally, it is only available in Bluebird Blue.

Bluebird and the Campbell family have a long association with the National Motor Museum. Don Wales commented, “The museum is home to a wonderful historic land speed display celebrating the achievements of Sir Malcolm Campbell and Donald Campbell. It seems only fitting that we will be launching both the Bluebird DC50 electric sportscar and Bluebird GTL electric race car at Beaulieu."