British Innovators Challenge Tesla with Lightweight Electric Sports Car

A new wave of innovation in the automotive industry is emerging from the UK, as Longbow Motors prepares to unveil its exclusive electric sports car before Tesla fulfills its long-standing promise of a Roadster. Founded in 2023 by Daniel Davey and Mark Tapscott, former employees of Tesla and Lucid who also honed their skills at China's BYD, this startup is set to revolutionize the market with its unique approach to electric vehicle design. Production is scheduled to commence by 2026, attracting enthusiasts eager for a high-performance electric experience.
While Tesla enthusiasts continue to patiently anticipate the arrival of the Roadster, which was initially announced by CEO Elon Musk in 2020 and reiterated last year, Longbow Motors is taking a different path. Recognizing the challenge of weight in electric sports cars, the company has introduced the concept of "Featherweight Electric Vehicles" (FEV). This innovative strategy aims to enhance performance through lightweight construction, offering both a roadster and an open Speedster model. Built on an aluminum platform, these vehicles weigh in at 995 kilograms for the hardtop version and a mere 895 kilograms for the open Speedster, ensuring impressive acceleration despite no official specifications being released yet.
Inspired by a passion for driving and accessibility, Longbow Motors co-founder and CEO Daniel Davey expressed the company's mission to create a driver-focused, lightweight electric sports car that remains affordable and accessible to driving enthusiasts. With backgrounds in launching the Tesla Model 3 in Europe and representing Lucid Motors internationally, the team brings extensive experience to the table. The Longbow Speedster will debut as a limited edition of 150 units priced around €102,000, alongside exclusive Luminary 1st Edition and Autograph Edition models, further enhancing its appeal to discerning customers. As anticipation builds, this British venture showcases the potential of creativity and engineering excellence to redefine the future of sustainable motoring.