Morgan plots an electric future

Following the recent announcement of its first all-electric production model, the EV3, the Morgan Motor company is investigating the use of further electrification. It’s part of a three-year project that aims to assess the potential of both hybrid and full-electric powertrains for future models.

Morgan is leading a consortium of British firms, which includes Potenza Technology and Delta Motorsport, backed by a £6m government grant. At first glance, the 107-year old Malvern manufacturer may appear an unlikely candidate for advanced powertrain projects. In fact, though, it has a strong track record in this area, backed up by the fuel-cell powered LIFEcar concept of 2009 and the battery-electric Plus E shown in 2012.

“That amalgamation of modern technology and traditional craftsmanship is now very much part of Morgan,” said Jon Wells, the company’s head of design. “Our cars are competitive on their emissions at the moment, but the requirements are becoming increasingly tough and we need to make sure we’re ready for that. We see the use of electric and hybrid powertrains as a means to keep doing what we’re doing in the modern world.