Skip advert
Advertisement

Detroit Electric SP:01 officially revealed

New all electric and British built two-seat sports car revealed, arriving in the UK early this year with 179 mile range

American EV manufacturer, Detroit Electric, has released first images and specifications of the new pure-electric SP:01 sports car. The Lotus Exige lookalike will be the first model to emerge from the brand following its revival in 2008, with the target of becoming the world’s fastest two-seat electric sports car. 

The production model has received only minor visual tweaks over the concept that previewed the SP:01 at the Shanghai Motor Show in 2013. Still clearly based on the Lotus Exige, small cosmetic changes have been made to boost the SP:01’s aerodynamic performance.

Advertisement - Article continues below

A new fastback configuration at the rear end replaces the prototype’s flying buttresses either side of the rear windscreen but the fibre glass body remains. A rear wing and diffuser have also been added to reduce lift and improve handling at higher speeds. Buyers are able to spruce-up the SP:01 even further with various optional extras such as a carbon fibre rear wing, diffuser and battery cover, too.

Mechanically, the SP:01 features a 282bhp electric motor developing 280Nm of torque with the optional of either a one-speed or two-speed automatic transmission. The lightweight body and vast reserves of torque from the electric motor mean 0-62mph takes just 3.9 seconds before going on to a top speed of 155mph. A full recharge can take up to eight hours, while a 179 mile range is also claimed. 

Inside, an 8.4-inch touchscreen which features an Android operating system dominates the compact cabin. A choice of leather or Alcantara sports seats are available to buyers with, electric windows, ambient lighting, embroidered floor mats and Bluetooth all standard features.

The SP:01 will go on sale in Europe, Asia and North America early this year with the first batch of models set to satisfy buyers with pre-orders. Prices are yet to be officially confirmed but a figure around the £100,000 is expected. 

Skip advert
Advertisement

Find a car with the experts

Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Land Rover Defender Sport: electric Freelander successor has the BMW iX3 in its crosshairs
New baby Land Rover Defender render - watermarked

New Land Rover Defender Sport: electric Freelander successor has the BMW iX3 in its crosshairs

The new Land Rover Defender Sport is set to sit below the existing Defender in the Land Rover range, with our exclusive images previewing how it could…
News
12 Oct 2025
New Leapmotor B10 2025 review: budget brand's best EV yet
Leapmotor B10 - front action

New Leapmotor B10 2025 review: budget brand's best EV yet

The new Leapmotor B10 is a serious player in the small electric SUV sector, boasting good range, plenty of kit and a tempting price tag
Road tests
14 Oct 2025
Car Deal of the Day: fully-loaded VW Passat PHEV for £235 a month seems like crazy value
Volkswagen Passat Estate UK - front action

Car Deal of the Day: fully-loaded VW Passat PHEV for £235 a month seems like crazy value

The Passat has been a family favourite for decades – and the latest model is no different. It’s our Deal of the Day for October 13.
News
13 Oct 2025