Former executives from Tesla and Polestar have introduced two new ultra-lightweight electric sports cars.

      Electric vehicles (EVs), often recognized for their substantial battery packs, are not typically associated with being lightweight—until now.

      Today, British startup Longbow, started by former executives from Tesla, Lucid, and Polestar, revealed its plans for two new ultra-light EVs, promoting them as the “spiritual successors” to the classic Lotus Elise and Jaguar E-Type.

      The first model, named Speedster, is an agile, open-top sports car that weighs only 895kg, capable of going from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds. It boasts an estimated range of 275 miles and starts at ₤84,995, with the first deliveries expected in 2026.

      Longbow aims to manufacture an initial batch of 150 Speedsters before focusing on the slightly heavier and more affordable sibling, the Roadster. Priced at ₤64,995 and weighing 995kg, the Roadster is only marginally slower, reaching 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds.

      Compared to today’s EVs, which average around 2,000kg, both the Speedster and Roadster are remarkably lightweight. Tesla’s Roadster, which weighed 1,305kg, was among the lightest sports cars ever put into mass production before being discontinued in 2012.

      “Our first two cars represent what a modern driver’s vehicle should be: agile, balanced, electric, and exhilarating,” said Longbow’s co-founder and CEO David Davey, who has previously contributed to the launch of Lucid Motors in Europe and claims to have driven the Tesla Roadster that Elon Musk sent into space. “We are bringing back an icon, the lightweight British sports car,” he added.

      Together, the Speedster and Roadster signify a completely new category of cars, challenging traditional automotive norms.

      The Speedster harkens back to classic British sports vehicles.

      Over time, EVs have been increasing not only in market presence but also in size. This is partly due to heavier batteries that occupy more space but also because manufacturers are responding to the demand for electric versions of SUVs, pickup trucks, and even Hummers.

      “Surprisingly, the segment that initiated the electric revolution—the global two-seater sports car market, valued at about $16 billion and consisting of approximately 250,000 vehicles annually—has seen little electrification,” Davey noted on LinkedIn.

      With most established carmakers competing in similar segments, Longbow aims to fill a market gap.

      Longbow’s EV expertise

      While these plans sound exciting, what differentiates Longbow from other flashy 3D concept designs?

      Firstly, the team at Longbow is well-versed in EV technology. Co-founders Davey, Jenny Keisu, and Mark Tapscott have extensive backgrounds in launching electric vehicles at companies such as Tesla, Uber, Polestar, and Lucid. Keisu also previously led X Shore, bringing in electric boating knowledge. “We bring insights from the core of EV innovation, fully understanding how to design and deliver transformative vehicles on a commercial scale,” said Davey.

      Regarding design and specifications, Longbow keeps it straightforward, opting for a standard aluminum chassis and using reusable, configurable components for enhanced durability. The majority of vehicle parts will come from third-party suppliers, including a standard 240kW motor that is readily accessible.

      Admittedly, this makes both the Speedster and Roadster slower than high-performance electric hypercars and less luxurious compared to a Porsche Taycan or Maserati Granturismo Folgore. However, they are significantly more affordable. Longbow's vehicles could appeal to those seeking a stylish Sunday drive to replace an older Porsche Boxster or Lotus Elise.

      The Roadster serves as the larger counterpart to the Speedster.

      Both models are currently open for pre-order, and Longbow, which has been quietly developing its plans for the past few years, anticipates unveiling its first prototype later this year.

      “We acknowledge the challenges ahead,” Davey stated. “Scaling production, managing global supply chain issues, and facing competition from established automakers requires careful planning.” Therefore, the company will commence with a limited edition of 150 Speedsters before transitioning into mass production of the Roadster.

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