Specialist car manufacturing is a unique part of the UK motor industry. Later today, SMMT will launch a report that demonstrates the value of the UK’s unique low volume car manufacturing industry, highlighting some of the challenges these companies face and, importantly, the opportunities for growth that can be achieved.
Producing some of the world’s most iconic and prestigious brands, the UK is leading the way in product design and innovation. A cross-section of these brands is on show in SMMT’s Westminster exhibition area.
Aston Martin One-77
In a culmination of the marque’s know-how, Aston Martin has produced the One-77. As the most advanced and expensive Aston Martin ever made, the One-77 combines high technology with hand-built craftsmanship to demonstrate the unique capabilities of the company’s designers and engineers.
With a super lightweight rigid carbon fibre structural core, the supercar weights just 1,630kg, boasting a 220mph-plus top speed and a 0-62mph time of under 3.7 seconds courtesy of the UK-engineered V12 engine that generates 750bhp.
McLaren Automotive Carbon MonoCell
The carbon fibre chassis tub of the MP4-12C, the first production car wholly designed and built by McLaren since the F1 supercar.
The ‘MonoCell’ represents the first time that such a lightweight, safe and strong structure has been available on a series production car in its market segment.
Morgan Electric Plus E
The Plus E concept car bears all the classic design features and styling cues of the Plus 8, except the electric Plus E is fitted with a Zytec electric motor and a lithium ion battery. Aiming to create a zero tailpipe emission vehicle that delivers as much driving pleasure as possible.
The project has been achieved through aluminium fabrication specialist Radshape paying particular attention to retaining chassis stiffness and weight distribution to ensure excellent dynamics and ride quality.
Radical SR3 SL
Combining the proven chassis and aerodynamic experience of the LMP-pace SR3 RS, with a Ford turbocharged EcoBoost engine, the Radical SR3 SL is fully road legal and the safest car of its type. Epitomising UK engineering expertise and innovation, the Radical features lightning-quick 80ms gear changes powered by Formula One style paddleshift.
Incredible precision comes courtesy of the bespoke adjustable dampers, developed specifically for the car’s unique race proven suspension arrangement and fully floating 28mm disc brakes front and rear to provide incredible stopping power.
To find out more about the diverse specialist car manufacturers in the UK, download SMMT’s new report that traces the uniquely British success story, available via www.smmt.co.uk later today.
Click through the slideshow below to see all the photos from SMMT’s exhibition space.