TVR goes electric and gets involved with Formula E
01 May 2022
British sportscar manufacturer TVR has expanded its profile in recent weeks, announcing plans for a new fully-electric car, slated for release by 2024, as well as becoming involved with premier electric motorsport series Formula E.
TVR is developing an electric-powered version of its yet-to-be-released Griffith model, which is currently powered by an internal-combustion-engine (ICE). News of TVR’s electric Griffith follows the recent completion of a deal between the carmaker and Ensorcia Automotive, an affiliate of South American lithium development company Ensorcia Metals.
The deal is intended to support TVR’s plans to build future electric vehicles (EVs), as the carmaker moves into its new factory, located in Ebbw Vale, south Wales, which is expected to be completed and fully operational within 18 months.
Les Edgar, chairman of TVR stated: ‘As part of our mission to rejuvenate and future-proof our iconic British brand, we can confirm that we shall develop an electrified variant of the Griffith, due to market soon afterwards. This is a hugely important element in ensuring that TVR will become a sustainable, net-zero business.’
TVR gets a piece of electric motorsport
As well as TVR’s commitment to building EVs, the company, which has a long-lasting pedigree in various forms of motorsport, has become involved at the highest level, marking a significant milestone in its strategic direction.
The marque recently sponsored round six of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, held on the storied Monaco Grand Prix circuit. TVR will also be the primary sponsor for the London E-Prix, which will be a double-header weekend of racing, taking place in the UK capital on 30 and 31 July.
‘To see TVR, an iconic manufacturer of performance sports cars, cross- over and make this commitment to electric is a significant milestone and aligned to Formula E’s vision of an electric future,’ said Matt Scammell, chief commercial officer, Formula E. ‘TVR is a beloved brand, and we look forward to working alongside them in Monaco and London to showcase their plans to electrify.’
Formula E unveils faster and more sustainable Gen3 era
TVR’s sponsorship of the Monaco E-Prix coincided with a significant announcement for the future of electric-powered single-seater motorsport, with the long-awaited Gen3 era of the sport officially unveiled at the Yacht Club de Monaco.
The world’s only net-zero carbon sport, Formula E is currently in its eighth season, and since its inception has established itself as the premier form of electric-powered motorsport, attracting major manufacturers and some of the world’s best drivers.
The Gen3 era announcement is significant as it signals a sporting and technological advancement from the current Gen2 iteration of the formula with the fastest, lightest, most powerful, and efficient electric race car ever built.
Gen3 cars will be able to reach speeds of over 200mph, with a power output of 350kW (470bhp), which is a notable upgrade compared to the current racing machines. They will be the first ever formula cars with both front and rear powertrains.
As well as being lighter, faster and more powerful, Formula E car batteries will consist of sustainably-sourced minerals, while battery cells will be reused and recycled at end of life. Recycled carbon fibre will be used for the first time in a formula car, featuring recycled materials from retired Gen2 cars. Additionally, tyres will be made from natural rubber and recycled fibres, and will be fully recycled after use.
‘Formula E’s Gen3 race car represents a leap forward for motorsport and electric mobility,’ says Jamie Reigle, Formula E CEO. ‘Designed to demonstrate that high performance, efficiency and sustainability can be packaged together without compromise, the Gen3 car is our most powerful, lightest, and fastest race car to date.’
