The Longbow Speedster Is Among The Lightest Electric Cars Ever Produced

The Speedster introduces a novel "Featherweight Electric Vehicle" category, aiming at a weight of under 1,970 pounds, with intentions for restricted production.

Longbow

In a market dominated by substantial, battery-heavy giants, the British upstart Longbow is mounting a resolute challenge against automotive excess. Originating from London’s Brixton region, the business has recently launched its inaugural production-ready vehicle: the Longbow Speedster. This all-electric sports automobile is not merely a concept; it is a tangible "Featherweight Electric Vehicle" (FEV) that embodies the "add lightness" principle espoused by renowned engineers such as Colin Chapman.

Longbow

Weighing an impressive 1,970 pounds (895 kg), the Speedster is around 1,200 pounds lighter than a contemporary combustion-engine Lotus Emira. Notwithstanding its lightweight structure, it guarantees an impressive 275-mile WLTP range and an exhilarating 0–62 mph acceleration in under 3.5 seconds. According to cofounder Daniel Davey, “In contrast to others, we do not focus on providing lifeless mannequins.” This vehicle is exceptionally dynamic. Its agility is attributed to a custom aluminium chassis and a realistic parts strategy: instead of investing years in the development of proprietary components, Longbow employs high-quality, commercially available motors and batteries.

The Longbow team possesses significant industry expertise, featuring former employees from Tesla, Lucid, and Lotus. This lineage has enabled them to transition from design sketch to practical demonstrator in about six months—a third of the duration customary for major manufacturers. The Speedster, restricted to 150 meticulously crafted units valued at £84,995 (~$111,500), will be succeeded by a more affordable, high-production hard-top model named the Roadster. For individuals weary of the "black mass of batteries," Longbow exemplifies that the electric future may remain nimble, harmonious, and thrilling.