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Detroit Electric SP.01
Detroit Electric SP.01
Detroit Electric SP.01
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Detroit Electric SP.01
Overview
ManufacturerDetroit Electric
Production2013 (prototype only)
Model years2013
Body and chassis
Body style2-door roadster
LayoutRear-wheel drive
PlatformLotus Exige
Powertrain
Electric motor210 kW (280 hp)
Battery37 kWh (130 MJ) lithium-polymer battery
Electric range180 mi (290 km) ((NEDC)
Dimensions
Length3,880 mm (152.8 in)
Width1,751 mm (68.9 in)
Height1,117 mm (44.0 in)
Kerb weight1,155 kg (2,546 lb)

The Detroit Electric SP.01 is a proposed battery electric vehicle designed by the Detroit Electric company and originally unveiled to the media in Detroit[1] and then publicly at the Shanghai Motor Show in 2013.[2] It is powered by an air-cooled lithium polymer battery.

It formally launched in the UK in 2017 as a production ready model, but never progressed beyond prototype stage.

History

[edit]

The original Detroit Electric was an electric car model produced by the Anderson Electric Car Company in Detroit, Michigan, from 1907 to 1939.

The marque was revived in 2008 by Albert Lam, former Group CEO of the Lotus Engineering Group and executive director of Lotus Cars of England.[3] to produce modern all-electric cars by Detroit Electric Holding Ltd. of the Netherlands.[4][5]

Detroit Electric was relaunched to the world on 19 March 2013, with a press launch of its proposed new U.S. office in the Fisher Building in Detroit, Michigan[6] but the office deal was never concluded.[7]

In 2014 it emerged that a change of strategy relocated the proposed manufacturing if the SP01 to the UK[8] and testing of the prototypes continued in 2014.[9]

The SP.01 was relaunched again in 2017 following new investment from Far East Smarter Energy with $370 million for the European arm to homologate the car and prepare production in Leamington Spa.[10]

Detroit Electric received a $1.8 billion Chinese investment in 2017 with the goal of finally producing the SP.01.[11] The company ceased to make any further announcements after September 2017.[12] In 2019, Aston-Martin disclosed that a $25 million payment from Detroit Electric for tooling and design consultation had not been made, with little prospects of recovering it. By this point Detroit Electric was reported to be a Chinese company.[13]

In November 2021, Lebanese start-up EV Electra announced that it had acquired a majority stake in Detroit Electric. The $500 million investment would reportedly enable the company to expand its presence across Europe and Asia, with the aim of producing several new cars in the coming years.[14][15]

Detroit Electric SP.01

[edit]
Detroit Electric SP.01 rear

The Detroit Electric SP.01[16] two-seat all-electric roadster is Detroit Electric's first product and sales were originally scheduled to begin in the United States in August 2013 at a price starting at US$135,000. Production was delayed because, as of August 2013, the company had not been able to secure an agreement for a manufacturing facility.[17] The SP.01, like the Tesla Roadster, was to be built on a Lotus Elise aluminum chassis with carbon fiber body, and production was to be limited to 999 units. The SP.01 prototypes are being assembled in Europe. The commercial version was to have been built at a factory in Wayne County, Michigan, but Detroit Electric announced it would initially be built in the Netherlands. In June 2014 Detroit Electric announced that the SP.01 would be built in Royal Leamington Spa, England, with their Netherlands facility handling the sales and marketing side of the operation.[18]

The SP.01 had a total weight of 2,354 lb (1,068 kg), a 150 kW (200 bhp) electric motor mounted behind the passenger cabin that delivers 225 N⋅m (166 lb⋅ft) of torque. The electric motor drives the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission, and a fifth and sixth gear ratios in the gearbox are redundant and available as an option. Top speed is 155 mph (249 km/h) and its time from 0 to 62 mph (0 to 100 km/h) is 3.7 seconds, the same as the Tesla Roadster. The electric car was to have a 37 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack capable of delivering a range of 180 mi (290 km) under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) standard. A 7.7 kWh home charging unit would fully charge the car in 4.3 hours, a charging through a standard 13A power source would take 8 hours.[19][20]

The first production unit was exported to China in February 2016 to be used as a demonstrator.[21] Volume production was planned to begin at the Leamington works later in 2017, as the first of a series of Detroit Electric models.[22]

Technology

[edit]

Unique to the SP.01 is its thermal management system, developed in-house by Detroit Electric.[23] As opposed to liquid coolant, Detroit Electric has opted for conditioned air to cool[24] and heat the battery pack as this not only lengthens the battery life, but also makes the entire drive system lighter and safer in the event of a crash. The SP.01 has a telemetry-link to the company's central portal for continuous monitoring of battery and powertrain condition.[23]

An Android application, the Smartphone Application Managed Infotainment(‘SAMI’), was to provide access to all auxiliary functions ranging from music player, satellite navigation, regenerative braking adjustment and access to vehicle systems status, level of battery charge, range to recharge and other vehicle telemetry.[25] Via GSM, SAMI would also be able to detect the vehicle location.[26][23]

The SP.01 has bi-directional charging technology ('360 Powerback’) which can detect loss of inflow current and reverse feed to the home circuit.[9][27] Charging other electric vehicles is also made possible with 360 Powerback (i.e. vehicle to vehicle).[28]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Detroit Electric SP.01

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Detroit Electric SP:01 is a limited-production, two-seat, rear-wheel-drive electric sports car developed by , a company reviving the historic name of an early 20th-century American manufacturer, featuring a mid-mounted asynchronous AC producing 285 horsepower and 207 lb-ft (280 Nm) of , carbon-fiber bodywork on a modified , and performance specifications including 0-60 mph acceleration in 3.7 seconds, a top speed of 155 mph, and an NEDC-estimated range of approximately 180 miles (EPA estimate lower, around 135 miles) from its 37-kWh lithium-polymer battery pack. Originally unveiled as a concept in in April 2013, the SP:01 was positioned as the world's lightest and fastest pure-electric production at the time, with a curb weight of around 2,354 pounds achieved through its bonded aluminum and lightweight materials, and transmission options including a four- or five-speed manual or a single- or two-speed automatic. Initial plans called for assembly in a dedicated facility in , with production slated to begin in August 2013 at a rate of up to 2,500 units annually and a total run limited to 999 examples priced at about $135,000, aiming to create over 180 local jobs and fund future models like a $50,000 family sedan. However, early production ambitions in stalled due to site acquisition challenges, with plans shifting to in 2013 before manufacturing ultimately relocated to a facility in , , where the first production-specification SP:01 rolled off the line in October 2015 and was exported to as a demonstrator by Jowett Motors (Asia) Ltd., highlighting the model's emphasis on international sales amid delays in broader volume production. In 2017, the company secured a $1.8 billion investment from a Chinese firm to enable volume production, but no additional units were confirmed built, and activity ceased thereafter. Key features of the SP:01 include a drop-top design with a fastback roofline, an 8.4-inch Android-based for and HVAC controls, and innovative options like bidirectional "360 Powerback" charging to power external devices, underscoring its blend of high-performance engineering and practical electric utility derived from military-grade battery exceeding 140 Wh/kg . Despite entering limited production and garnering attention at events like the Shanghai Auto Show, the SP:01 saw no widespread deliveries, with production limited to prototypes and demonstrators as of 2025, positioning it as a notable but ultimately niche effort in the early evolution of electric sports cars.

Development and history

Company background

The Detroit Electric Car Company was originally founded in 1907 by William C. Anderson as an extension of his Anderson Carriage Company, which had been producing horse-drawn vehicles since the before transitioning to electric automobiles in , . The company manufactured over 13,000 electric vehicles until 1939, earning a reputation for reliability and quiet operation that appealed to urban drivers and celebrities, including inventor , who owned multiple Detroit Electric models and praised their Edison nickel-iron batteries as an option. Production ceased amid the and the rise of affordable gasoline-powered cars, but the brand's legacy endured as a pioneer in early electric mobility. In 2008, the marque was revived by Albert Lam, former Group CEO of Lotus Engineering and Executive Director of in England, amid growing interest in sustainable transportation and electric vehicles. Headquartered in , , the new entity aimed to honor the original company's heritage by developing high-performance electric vehicles that addressed modern challenges like and environmental impact, positioning itself as a premium EV brand in the Motor City. Initial funding came from private investors, including Chinese backers, enabling the company to focus on innovative electric sports cars with an emphasis on lightweight construction to enhance efficiency and performance. Early development involved collaborations with UK-based engineering firms, leveraging Lam's Lotus expertise for prototype design and testing, which prioritized agile, low-weight platforms suitable for electric powertrains. Key milestones included the brand's formal revival in and the unveiling of initial concept sketches for its model in 2013, marking the transition toward production of the SP.01 as Detroit Electric's modern entry into the EV market.

Project development and partnerships

The Detroit Electric SP.01 project originated from the revival of the historic brand by former Lotus CEO Albert Lam, aiming to reintroduce high-performance electric vehicles to the market. The SP.01 concept was unveiled as a two-seater electric roadster on April 3, 2013, at the company's in Detroit's , with its global debut at the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show. In 2013, secured a licensing agreement to adapt the Lotus Exige's lightweight aluminum platform for the SP.01, leveraging the proven engineering from the British maker to ensure handling excellence in an electric format. Design finalization occurred in early 2015, incorporating aerodynamic refinements such as reshaped front air ducts for improved airflow and a fixed-roof coupe configuration to replace the initial roadster's flying buttresses, enhancing stability and efficiency. Prototype testing took place at facilities in the , with the first completed in late 2015 at the assembly site in Royal Leamington Spa. In March 2017, formed a with China's Smarter Energy Group, securing a $1.8 billion investment to accelerate SP.01 production in facilities across and the , while planning additional models including an electric . However, despite the investment, production of the SP.01 remained limited to a single confirmed unit, with no further deliveries or developments reported as of 2025, and the company has been inactive since.

Design and engineering

Chassis and body

The Detroit Electric SP.01 utilizes a modified featuring a bonded aluminum , which contributes to its lightweight curb weight of approximately 1,070 kg (2,359 lb). The vehicle's body dimensions are 3,880 mm in length, 1,751 mm in width, 1,117 mm in height, and a of 2,300 mm, providing a compact footprint optimized for agile handling. Aerodynamic enhancements include a revised front , integrated side vents for improved , and a rear diffuser designed to minimize drag. Configured as a two-seater roadster, the SP.01 employs carbon fiber panels for the hood, doors, and roof to further reduce overall weight, with an optional fixed roof available for enhanced versatility. The model was offered in Pure (1,155 kg) and (1,175 kg) variants. It rolls on 16-inch front wheels fitted with 175/55R16 tires and 17-inch rear wheels fitted with 225/45R17 tires, supporting its rear-wheel-drive setup. The electric is seamlessly integrated into the , maintaining a mid-engine layout for balanced .

Interior and ergonomics

The interior of the Detroit Electric SP:01 is a minimalist two-seat derived from the platform, prioritizing driver focus with excellent visibility through a low and expansive area. It features high-quality materials including or Alcantara upholstery on the sports seats, which are upholstered in black with body-color accents, complemented by upgraded trim, embroidered floor mats, and carbon fiber accents for a sporty yet refined ambiance. The cabin layout emphasizes accessibility to controls, with a compact design that places essential functions within easy reach of the driver. At the center of the dashboard is an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system running on an Android operating system, which integrates navigation, music playback, climate control, and vehicle diagnostics. This system supports Bluetooth connectivity and the Smartphone Application Managed Infotainment (SAMI) platform, allowing users to manage features via a compatible smartphone application for seamless integration. A digital instrument cluster provides real-time displays of key data such as speed, remaining range, and energy consumption, enhancing driver awareness without distracting from the road. The SP:01's sports seats are designed for ergonomic support during spirited driving, offering a firm bolstering suited to the vehicle's performance-oriented character. Additional conveniences include power electric windows and power central locking, contributing to overall usability in the compact cockpit. Safety is addressed through standard features such as an all-disc braking system with anti-lock braking (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC), which help maintain control during dynamic maneuvers. The mid-engined layout, with the battery pack positioned behind the seats, limits luggage space to a small compartment aft of the cabin, prioritizing weight distribution and handling over storage capacity.

Powertrain and technology

Electric motor and drivetrain

The Detroit Electric SP.01 is equipped with a single rear-mounted asynchronous AC that delivers 285 horsepower (210 kW) and 207 lb-ft (280 Nm) of . This provides instant from zero RPM, enabling responsive acceleration without the need for traditional multi-gear shifting. The drivetrain adopts a rear-wheel-drive configuration paired with a single-speed as standard, with optional four- or five-speed manual or two-speed s, optimizing power delivery for and simplicity in an electric where is immediately available across the RPM range. The motor's mid-ship integration helps achieve a near-ideal 48:52 between the front and rear axles, promoting balanced handling and stability during dynamic driving. To sustain performance under demanding conditions, the motor and inverter utilize a liquid cooling system that circulates to dissipate effectively, preventing throttling and maintaining consistent output. Complementing this is a system that recaptures during deceleration, converting it back to for the battery; the system's intensity can be adjusted through selectable driver modes including Eco, Normal, and for tailored and driving feel. The SP:01 was offered in two powertrain variants: the Pure with 204 horsepower (152 kW) and the Performance with 286 horsepower (213 kW), both delivering 207 lb-ft (280 Nm) of torque.

Battery and charging systems

The Detroit Electric SP.01 features a 37 kWh lithium-ion battery pack integrated into the chassis as a stressed structural member, positioned low and mid-mounted to optimize weight distribution and enhance vehicle stability. This achieves an of over 140 Wh/kg, which supports efficient power delivery to the while maintaining a lightweight design. An advanced (BMS) oversees thermal regulation, cell balancing, and health monitoring, transmitting data via onboard for remote diagnostics. The pack carries a standard three-year or 30,000-mile , with an optional extension to five years or 50,000 miles. Charging is facilitated by the proprietary 360-Powerback system, which provides bi-directional capability for vehicle-to-home (V2H) or (V2G) applications, allowing the battery to export up to 10 kW of power as an generator. The onboard AC charger supports up to 7.7 kW from a 240 V/32 A outlet, enabling a full charge in approximately 4.3 hours, while a standard Level 1 household outlet (120 V) requires about 24 hours.

Performance and specifications

Acceleration and handling

The Detroit Electric SP:01 demonstrates impressive straight-line , achieving 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds thanks to its mid-mounted and lightweight construction. This performance is complemented by a top speed electronically limited to 155 mph (249 km/h), positioning it among the quickest production electric sports cars of its era. Handling is enhanced by a fully independent double-wishbone suspension setup at both front and rear, featuring coil springs and telescopic dampers tuned for sporty dynamics. The low center of gravity, achieved through the floor-mounted battery pack, contributes to agile cornering and balanced weight distribution, with the overall curb weight of approximately 2,354 lb (1,068 kg) aiding maneuverability. Driver-selectable modes, facilitated by its four-speed manual transmission simulating gear ratios, allow adjustments to throttle response and stability for varied driving conditions, from street to track. Braking performance benefits from 282 mm (11.3-inch) ventilated and cross-drilled discs at all four wheels, augmented by to recover energy while providing confident stopping power, supported by (ABS) and (ESC). The combination of these elements delivers class-leading ride and handling characteristics, emphasizing the SP:01's focus on dynamic engagement. These specifications are based on manufacturer claims; the vehicle was not EPA-certified and saw limited production with no independent performance tests reported.

Range and efficiency

The Detroit Electric SP.01 offers a claimed range of 190 miles (306 km) on a full charge, based on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) standard. This figure reflects the vehicle's optimized energy use in mixed driving scenarios, supported by its 37 kWh battery capacity. Aerodynamics, achieved through a low and carbon fiber bodywork, along with low tires, play key roles in extending range by minimizing energy loss during motion. Efficiency is further enhanced by , which recaptures during braking. These specifications are based on manufacturer claims; the vehicle was not EPA-certified and saw limited production with no independent performance tests reported.

Production and market

Manufacturing process

The manufacturing of the Detroit Electric SP.01 began with low-volume assembly at the company's facility in , , in late 2015, where the first production vehicle rolled off the line. This initial phase utilized an derived from the , with carbon fiber body panels produced by URT Group in partnership with to ensure lightweight construction and structural integrity. The assembly process was hand-built, incorporating modular electric components such as the mid-mounted asynchronous developed in-house in the United States, allowing for customization and integration of the 37 kWh lithium-ion battery pack as a stressed member to enhance rigidity. In February 2016, the first completed SP.01 was handed over to Jowett Motors (Asia) Ltd., Detroit Electric's importer, and exported to , marking the transition toward Asian markets amid plans for broader distribution. The company targeted an annual production capacity of 2,500 units at a dedicated facility, emphasizing hand-assembly to maintain quality in this boutique electric segment. However, output remained limited, with only the initial unit confirmed beyond prototypes, as early plans for U.S.-based manufacturing in were abandoned in favor of overseas sites due to logistical challenges. Production faced significant delays following a 2017 with China's Smarter Energy Group, which provided a $1.8 billion investment intended to accelerate assembly and expand facilities in , including a site in . Despite this funding, no additional units were publicly confirmed as produced by 2020, attributed to ongoing issues, regulatory hurdles in international markets, and shifts in company priorities that stalled full-scale operations. The process highlighted the complexities of scaling production for a startup reliant on global partnerships for and components.

Sales and reception

The Detroit Electric SP:01 was positioned as a premium electric sports car aimed at enthusiasts desiring the agile handling reminiscent of the but with zero emissions, targeting markets in , , the , and . The base model carried a starting price of $135,000 USD in 2013 figures, varying by specification and local taxes, positioning it as a high-end alternative to contemporaries like the Tesla Roadster. Initial sales commenced in 2016, with the first production unit delivered to a in after assembly in the . Production was planned for up to 999 units overall, but actual output remained extremely limited, with only the initial unit confirmed as completed and delivered. Sales were constrained by ongoing delays and funding challenges, resulting in minimal despite early ambitions for broader availability. Reception highlighted the SP:01's impressive acceleration and lightweight design, earning praise in a 2018 episode of for its performance as one of the quickest pure-electric production cars available at the time. Media outlets commended its and electric delivery, often comparing it favorably to the in handling dynamics. However, critics noted drawbacks including its high cost relative to rivals like the Tesla Roadster and a modest range that limited everyday usability. After securing a $1.8 billion from a Chinese firm in 2017 for expanded production and additional models, the SP:01 project stalled amid unresolved funding and manufacturing issues, with no further sales or deliveries reported as of 2025 and no subsequent announcements from the company regarding the model. This outcome cemented its status as a niche, low-volume , appealing primarily to collectors and early adopters rather than achieving widespread commercial success.

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