Production of world's fastest electric two-seater begins

Detroit Electric has commenced production of what it claims is the world's lightest and fastest two-seat pure-electric sports car.

Following its global reveal exactly a year ago, the first SP:01 has rolled off the production line at Detroit Electric's Leamington Spa manufacturing facility in the UK.

Set to go on sale in Asia and Europe in the coming weeks, the SP:01 combines a carbon-fibre body with an aluminium chassis, aiding a class-leading power-to-weight ratio that promises blistering acceleration.

According to its US-headquartered maker, the SP:01 holds the title as the world’s lightest and fastest all-electric sports car, with a 0-100km/h sprint time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 250km/h making it only slightly.

While that's quick, it's not as quick as the new 'Ludicrous Mode' software update for Tesla's top-shelf Model S P85D large electric super-sedan, which is claimed to hit 100km/h in just three seconds despite being much bigger and heavier than the compact 1175kg SP:01 coupe.

The Lotus Elise/Exige-based SP:01 ties a 210kW electric motor to a single-speed automatic transmission, with the option of a twin-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission.

The battery in the SP:01 has been integrated into the chassis as a stressed member, adding stiffness to enhance the vehicle’s handling and safety. It's also claimed to be the world's most energy-dense automotive battery, offering over 140kWh/kg.

“We are thrilled to see our first production car roll of the line at our UK manufacturing site,” said Albert Lam, Chairman and Group CEO of Detroit Electric.

“Our first customer is sure to appreciate the unique experience of driving the SP:01 as we’ve worked hard to develop technologies that ensure it is one of the most rewarding pure electric sports cars to drive.”

Every Detroit Electric vehicle comes with a bi-directional charge and discharge capability, made possible through the patented Detroit Electric home charging and power back-up unit – turning the vehicle into a power source for both the home and the grid.

Detroit Electric, which has distributors throughout Europe and Asia, will produce the SP:01 in both left- and right-hand drive configuration and says additional countries will join its global network over the coming months.