The Case for Less Practical EVs
Since demand this decade has largely shifted toward crossovers and SUVs, it comes as no surprise that most modern EVs use those body styles. That helps explain why all-electric two-door sports cars remain limited, though a few automakers are still pushing the segment forward.
Over in China, there’s a lesser-known electric sports car called the SC-01, which, according to Autocar, is inspired by the Lancia Stratos, one of the most iconic rally cars of all time. This is an interesting development, given that the SC-01 is now venturing west, particularly to the U.K. under the distributorship of the Small Sports Car Company.
The Electric Lotus Formula
The report stated that SSCC founder Mark Cotton has already acquired the U.K. import rights for the SC-01 and is now trying to secure three dealer partners to sell and service the car. The model was created by Feng Xiaotong, who also founded the China-based restoration firm China Car Custom, while the importer is billing it as “the car Lotus should have built.”
That comparison could be backed by the technical details. The SC-01 weighs about 1,380 kg (3,042 lbs), which may be around 500 kg (1,102 lbs) heavier than the Lotus Elise, known for being a lightweight sports car. However, that figure is still remarkable, given that the SC-01 uses a fully electric powertrain, which is typically heavier than a combustion setup.
Despite the weight penalty of going electric, the SC-01 can accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 2.9 seconds. Its dual-motor setup delivers 429 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. The 60-kWh battery pack sits between the axles and behind the seats, providing weight distribution similar to that of a mid-engined sports car.
Other components include a bespoke spaceframe chassis, manually adjustable suspension, and a straightforward interior with no central touchscreen and a manual handbrake. It doesn’t even have an ADAS.
This Is Not a Cheap Thrill
With a starting price of around £50,000 (roughly $66,000 at current exchange rates), SSCC expects to sell around 160 SC-01s in its first year, with annual volume increasing to 360 units by year three.
The SC-01 could appeal to buyers willing to take a chance on a lesser-known brand instead of choosing more established options, such as the MG Cyberster, as well as the upcoming Alpine A110 EV and electric Porsche 718. The latter was previously rumored to be at risk of cancellation, which would not be entirely surprising, as electric sports cars have long been criticized for their extra weight, lack of engine noise, and supposed lack of “soul.”
While the electric sports car is moving west, no U.S. launch has been announced, and its Chinese origins could create significant regulatory obstacles. Polestar, for instance, is set to be barred from selling new vehicles in the U.S. starting with the 2027 model year under rules targeting Chinese-linked connected-vehicle technology. For now, attention turns to seeing how the SC-01 performs across the Atlantic.
