Morgan is developing an electric sports car with a manual transmission

An electric sports car with a five-speed manual transmission was developed by Morgan with the support of British technology specialists Zytek and Radshape.

Shown as a concept to test the market's reaction, the radical new roadster could go into production if there is enough demand for it. “We wanted to see how much fun you could have with an electric sports car, so we built one to help us figure that out,” explained Morgan COO Steve Morris.

“Plus E combines traditional Morgan looks with high-tech engineering and a drivetrain that delivers massive torque instantly at any speed. With a manual transmission that increases both range and driver engagement, this will be a fantastic car to drive.”

The Plus E is based on an adapted version of Morgan's lightweight aluminum chassis, wrapped in a modified traditional body of the new V8-powered BMW Plus 8, which was also unveiled in Geneva. Power is provided by a new derivative of the Zytek electric motor with 70kW and 300Nm of torque already proven by automakers in the US.

Mounted in the transmission tunnel, a Zytek unit drives the rear wheels through a conventional five-speed manual transmission. The clutch is retained, but because the engine delivers torque from zero speed, the driver can leave it on when stopping and pulling away, driving the car like a conventional automatic.

“A multi-speed transmission allows the engine to spend more time in its optimal mode, where it uses energy more efficiently, especially at high speeds,” explained Neil Heslington, Managing Director of Zytek Automotive.

“It also allows us to provide a lower gear for quick acceleration and will make the car more appealing to avid drivers.”

As part of the program, two engineering concept vehicles will be delivered. The former, with a five-speed manual transmission and lithium-ion batteries, will be used for pre-engineering evaluation, while the latter will be closer to potential production specs, with alternative battery technologies and possibly a sequential gearbox.

“The superior capabilities of the finished vehicle reflect the passion with which the Zytek team applied their considerable experience,” adds Morris. “The project is a real collaboration to make driving a zero emission car as enjoyable as possible. It worked very well, with an aluminum fabrication specialist

Radshape pays particular attention to maintaining chassis rigidity and weight distribution to deliver superior dynamics and ride quality with good steering feel.”

The joint research and development project is funded in part by the UK Government's Niche Vehicle Network Programme, which is managed by CENEX to promote the development and commercialization of new low carbon vehicle technologies.