First Detroit Electric SP:01 leaves factory

The first Detroit Electric sports car has rolled off the production line.

The SP:01 is described as the 'lightest and fastest two-seat pure-electric sports car in the world', and is manufactured in Leamington Spa.

The lightweight SP:01, which goes on sale in Asia and Europe over the coming weeks, combines a carbon fibre body with an aluminium chassis and features a 0-60mph time of 3.7 seconds, with the 6-speed manual, and a top speed of 155mph.

Powered by a 285HP / 210kW electric motor, the car is fitted with a single-speed automatic transmission as standard, with the option of twin-speed automatic or the 6-speed manual transmissions.

Albert Lam, Chairman and Group CEO of Detroit Electric commented: "We are thrilled to see our first production car roll off the line at our UK manufacturing site. 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.

"Seeing our vision realised is hugely satisfying and we can now focus on fulfilling a growing bank of orders. As our production process builds momentum, we look forward to providing this unique electric sports car to our customers all over the world," he added.

Detroit Electric describes the battery as the most 'energy-dense automotive battery pack in the world', offering over 140Wh/kg and comes with built-in bi-directional charge and discharge capability. Made possible via the Detroit Electric home charging and power back-up unit - named '360-Powerback' - the unit turns the vehicle into a power source for both the grid and the home.

Pricing for the Detroit Electric SP:01 will be announced shortly.