Morgan XP-1 Is An Exciting New Electric Three-Wheeler
by AutoExpert | 6 December, 2023
Morgan took everyone by surprise and decided to showcase its achievements in the realm of sporty, lightweight electric vehicles.
Here's the new Morgan XP-1, an experimental prototype boasting an all-electric powertrain. Derived from the Ford-powered Super 3, this model sheds its traditional components to accommodate the new electric hardware.
Notably, the XP-1 features Morgan's inaugural in-house-developed powertrain, applicable to both combustion engines and electric motors. To optimize development costs, the engineers strategically placed the electric motor within the existing transmission tunnel, delivering 134 horsepower to the rear wheel. Power is sourced from a compact 33-kilowatt-hour battery pack situated under the hood, traditionally reserved for the gasoline engine in the Super 3.
With a full charge, the battery provides a range of approximately 150 miles. Weighing in at under 1,543 pounds, the Morgan XP-1 experiences a mere 132-pound increase compared to its gasoline counterpart. Noteworthy aerodynamic enhancements, including adjustments to the underbody, wheels, and front fascia, have reduced the drag coefficient from 0.65 to 0.42—enhancing efficiency by a third.
Morgan XP-1 introduces four selectable drive modes creatively depicted on the digital driver's display by chili symbols. To handle the added weight, the three-wheeler incorporates Nitron adjustable dampers and modified spring rates. The battery supports fast charging and boasts bi-directional charging capabilities.
Morgan doesn't talk about plans for production. However, Chief Technical Officer Matt Hole hinted at a price slightly exceeding that of the Super 3. The model is priced at $53,938 in the United States and available at 12 showrooms.