Chicagoland MG Club: Driveline November 2020
 

MGB roadster to hit the streets again – in electric form
By Ben Coxworth—New Atlas
October 20, 2020


Plans call for an initial production run of 30 RBW EV Roadsters

If you never had a chance to own a classic MGB roadster when they were new, you'll soon have a second chance … sort of. It won't actually be made by MG, and it will be powered by an electric motor – the latter might or might not be a selling point, depending on the buyer.

The RBW EV Roadster will be available in a choice of 14 paint colors

Known as the RBW EV Roadster, the limited-edition automobile is being made by UK-based RBW EV Classic Cars. It was designed in collaboration with Continental Engineering Services and Zytek Automotive, both of which are part of the Formula E-associated Continental AG group.

The body shell is made by project partner British Motor Heritage, and contains the motor in the rear with the Hyperdrive lithium-ion battery pack in the front (under the bonnet). This arrangement reportedly results in "perfectly balanced" weight distribution, and allows for a maximum volume of battery storage space.

The EV Roadster's 70-kW motor is claimed to deliver a top speed of 80 mph (129 km/h), and a 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) acceleration time of nine seconds. If the standard six-battery pack is selected, one eight-hour charge should be good for a stated range of about 160 miles (257 km). That figure climbs to 200 miles (322 km) if an optional seventh battery is added. A regenerative braking system helps stretch the battery power.


Inside, drivers can expect to find hand-stitched leather upholstery, electric windows, a Pioneer satellite navigation system, a motorized 7-inch multi-touchscreen control center, along with multiple inputs for mobile device connectivity.

Some of the car's other features include custom-built double wishbone front and rear suspension, custom brake discs and callipers, and a unique wheel hub design that incorporates maintenance-free bearings.

Editors Note:
For additional info see the following links.
https://newatlas.com/rbw-ev-roadster-electric-mgb/
https://rbwevcars.com/models-rbw-roadster-gt/

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