Longbow, a newly established British EV manufacturer, has unveiled its first two electric sports cars: the Speedster and the Roadster. Founded in 2023 by former Tesla and Lucid executives, Longbow aims to capture the spirit of classic lightweight British sports cars while embracing electric mobility. The company describes itself as “the first-ever British electric sports car manufacturer” and operates under the motto “Celeritas Levitas,” which translates to “the speed of lightness.”
A focus on lightweight performance
Longbow’s Speedster and Roadster prioritize driving enjoyment over sheer power, following in the footsteps of iconic lightweight models like the Lotus Elise and Jaguar E-Type. Unlike many modern electric vehicles that tend to be heavy due to large battery packs, Longbow’s offerings emphasize agility through reduced weight and a driver-focused design.
The open-top Speedster weighs just 1,973 lb (895 kg) and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 3.5 seconds. It features a WLTP range of 275 miles (442 km), making it suitable for spirited drives and longer journeys alike. Meanwhile, the Roadster, a closed-roof coupe, is slightly heavier at 2,193 lb (995 kg) and reaches 60 mph in 3.6 seconds. However, its range is lower at 174 miles (280 km), reflecting a likely smaller battery pack or different tuning priorities.
Both models are powered by a single rear-wheel-drive motor producing a projected 322 horsepower. While the company has not disclosed battery capacity or specific powertrain details, the focus remains on keeping weight low while delivering an engaging driving experience.
Engineering and design choices
The Speedster and Roadster are built on an aluminum chassis, which, while not as light as carbon fiber, still provides a strong and lightweight foundation. The choice of materials and construction methods allows Longbow to keep the weight significantly lower than many existing EVs. Even the lightest Mazda MX-5 Miata, for comparison, weighs more than these electric sports cars, giving Longbow a unique position in the market.
Longbow CEO Daniel Davey highlighted the importance of maintaining a lightweight design in modern sports cars:
“Amidst the e-mobility revolution, we have lost something important. Many modern ‘sportscars’ tip the scales at [3,300 lb], and BEVs can reach almost double that. There is a need for a more driver-oriented, featherweight, electric sportscar – one that is attainable and accessible for those who love driving and the places it takes them.”
This philosophy is reflected in Longbow’s meticulous approach to weight management and performance tuning.
Exclusivity and production plans
Longbow has opened orders for its first production run, with a strictly limited number of units available. The Speedster will be produced in a total of 150 units, including 10 Luminary First Edition and 25 Autograph Edition models. The Roadster will have a similar allocation, with 100 Autograph Editions and 50 Luminary First Edition models. Each vehicle will be hand-built in the UK, reinforcing the brand’s focus on craftsmanship and exclusivity.
Deliveries for both models are expected to begin in 2026, but details regarding international availability, including potential exports to North America, remain uncertain. The company has not disclosed its production facility location or plans for scaling up manufacturing beyond these initial models.
Pricing and market positioning
While many high-performance EVs come with a hefty price tag, Longbow’s pricing strategy keeps its cars within reach of serious enthusiasts. The Speedster is set to start at £84,995 ($110,000), while the Roadster begins at £64,995 ($84,120). Given the limited production numbers and hand-built nature of the cars, these prices position Longbow’s models as attainable collector’s items rather than mass-market offerings.
Looking ahead
Longbow’s debut marks an interesting development in the EV industry, especially for those who prioritize driving engagement over raw power or range. By reviving the concept of lightweight sports cars in the electric age, the brand hopes to carve out a niche among enthusiasts. Whether Longbow can expand beyond its initial production run or bring its vehicles to a wider audience remains to be seen, but for now, it offers a fresh take on electric sports cars that focuses on agility, balance, and driving pleasure.
Source: Longbow
