Electric Cars

Experience the Past, Drive the Future: The Austin Arrow EV

A Legacy Reborn: Austin's Return to the Road

The distinguished Austin brand, celebrated for pioneering the original Mini in 1959, traces its origins back over a century to its debut at the Olympia Motor Show in Birmingham. The year 1906 marked the official introduction of the Endcliffe Phaeton, a 25 hp open-top automobile that captured the essence of early motoring. Fast forward to today, and the spirit of Austin is reignited with a vehicle that captures that same adventurous charm, reimagined for the 21st century.

Modern Engineering Meets Vintage Design in the New Arrow

For the 2026 model year, the new Austin Arrow showcases a design that could easily fit into the automotive landscape of 1906, featuring elements such as cycle fenders, leather bonnet straps, and distinct boat tail coachwork. Its design adheres to the L7e quadricycle regulations in the UK, similar to other compact and accessible electric vehicles like the Citroën Ami and Fiat Topolino. This ensures the Arrow is not only stylish but also practical and affordable, appealing to those who cherish classic aesthetics.

Performance That Thrills: The Austin Arrow's Electric Powertrain

Underneath its retro exterior, the Austin Arrow boasts a contemporary 20 hp rear-mounted electric motor. This power unit allows the lightweight EV to accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph in under eight seconds, a performance comparable to a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid or a mid-1980s Camaro Z28. The sensation of speed is amplified by the low-slung, open-air cockpit, providing an exhilarating connection to the road that harks back to early motoring adventures.

Power and Range: A Sustainable Journey

Equipped with a 20 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 96V electrical system, the Austin Arrow delivers an impressive range of 100 miles on a single charge. Weighing in at a mere 1,330 pounds, its lightweight construction contributes to both efficiency and agility. With an initial price point of 36,995 GBP (approximately $50,000 USD), this vehicle is designed for discerning consumers who value a unique blend of historical design and cutting-edge electric vehicle technology, offering a distinct alternative in the growing EV market.

In a landmark development for the maritime industry, Arc, a company established by engineers from leading technology firms, has finalized a significant agreement with Curtin Maritime. This collaboration centers on the construction of eight advanced electric tugboats, marking a crucial step towards sustainable shipping. This initiative highlights a growing understanding within the industry that the transition to electric propulsion for large vessels offers not only environmental benefits but also compelling economic advantages, including reduced operational costs and improved reliability.

Electric Propulsion Revolutionizes Port Operations

Founded in 2021, Arc Boats quickly made a name for itself with consumer electric vessels like the Arc One and Arc Sport. However, their ambition extends beyond recreational boats. Earlier this year, Arc unveiled an electric tug for the Port of Los Angeles, the \"Aaron P,\" an all-electric, 600hp vessel designed for inland transport. Building on this success, Arc is now scaling up its efforts, embarking on a project to deliver eight powerful ship-assist tugboats. These new vessels, each boasting 4,000hp of electric propulsion and a 6MWh battery, are engineered to maneuver colossal cargo ships within busy port environments. While primarily electric, they feature a diesel generator for backup power, ensuring uninterrupted operations for demanding tasks or extended offshore duties. Critically, these tugs are designed for megawatt charging from shore power, enabling rapid recharging between assignments. The shift to electric power offers numerous benefits, including more precise control for intricate port maneuvers, enhanced operational efficiency, and improved visibility for captains due to the absence of exhaust stacks. This venture, in partnership with Curtin Maritime, a company with nearly three decades of experience in tugboat operations, will see Curtin handle the ship design and construction on the US West Coast, while Arc provides its cutting-edge electric powertrain expertise.

This pioneering deal, valued at $20 million per vessel, represents a transformative moment for the industry. Unlike previous electric maritime projects often driven by government grants or subsidies, this agreement is a purely commercial endeavor between two profit-oriented entities. Both Arc and Curtin Maritime recognize the superior value proposition of electrified equipment, underscoring its economic viability. Electric powertrains promise increased uptime, reduced maintenance, and optimal performance, addressing critical concerns for tugboat operators who rely on peak efficiency and reliability. The long-term financial benefits, coupled with the inherent environmental advantages of zero emissions at the point of use, paint a clear picture. While diesel engines currently benefit from hidden subsidies by externalizing pollution costs, the rising cost of diesel engine compliance and the decreasing cost of battery technology are leveling the playing field. Arc's electric tugboats, even without subsidies, are now cost-comparable to their diesel counterparts, with the added benefit of mitigating the significant environmental and health impacts associated with fossil fuels. This commercial validation serves as a powerful testament to the growing maturity and economic competitiveness of electric propulsion in the heavy-duty maritime sector, paving the way for a cleaner, more efficient future for global shipping.