Classic MGB reborn as RBW EV Roadster

A UK-based firm called RBW EV Classic Cars has revealed a retro electric roadster "inspired" by the iconic MGB of the '60s.

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Under the RBW EV Roadster's familiar, but brand-new, heritage body shell from British Motor Heritage, sits a patented power drivetrain system that has been three years in development.

RBW has worked with Continental Engineering Services (CES) and Zytek Automotive, both part of Continental AG, which provides the technology applied to Formula E racing cars. Following RBW founder Peter Swain’s vision, together they have created a vehicle with the aesthetic appeal of a classic car but with modern electric engineering.

Managing Director Peter Swain said: “Our patented system places the electric motor at the rear of the car and Hyperdrive Innovation’s lithium-ion battery technology under the bonnet, which gives perfectly balanced weight distribution. Not only does this give the driver much better handling of the car, retaining that sports car feel, but it also affords maximum battery volume to be housed. 

“The RBW system has been tested and has achieved European Regulation No 100 of the Economic Commission, which confirms RBW as a recognised automotive worldwide manufacturer.

RBW claims a 260km range and a 0-100kph time of just over 9 seconds for the Roadster.

“What is even more exciting for us is that the RBW System and architecture can be installed into other body shells such as Austin Healey, Jaguar E-Type, Mini, and many more. Each car can be built to the clients’ personal specification and requirements. The opportunities are endless and therefore safeguards the future of classic motoring.”

The RBW roadster also features bespoke-built front and rear suspension, all independent utilising coil-over damper technology around the vehicle, and OEM developed brakes discs and callipers, with Regen braking also included. It also has the latest generation of hub design and wheel bearing technology installed to ensure maintenance free usage. All parts and components installed are brand new.

The limited-edition hand-crafted models, with an initial 30 examples created, have been designed with high quality performance levels of noise and vibrations. Over the past 20 years, CES has accumulated experience of optimising Noise Vibration Harshness (NVH) in such vehicles, especially the challenges brought about by the replacement of an internal combustion engine with an electric drivetrain – this has been applied to the RBW Roadster to ensure a pleasant experience during pull-away, city-traffic, cruising and spirited driving.

The multi-function dashboard display combines driver gauges and messages with safety diagnostic symbols in an easy to use graphic interface designed around safe and smooth operation whilst driving.

Pioneer’s Flagship Wi-Fi® enabled built-in navigation system brings a large motorised 7-inch 24bit True Colour Capacitive WVGA multi-touchscreen to the dashboard. It also features a HDMI input to mirror smart phones, SD Card input and Dual USB inputs and gold-plated RCA connectors for the highest audio quality possible.

The interior of the car has been designed by Prototrim, specialists in trim development with more than 100 years combined knowledge and experience. With the very highest levels of craftsmanship, every finished interior is exquisite from the accuracy of the patterns to the quality of the stitch detail. 

Further model developments are already underway with a fixed head GT version to follow in 2021 along with a second RBW electric recreation.

Production begins early 2021 with prices starting from £90,000 plus taxes, with an initial £5,000 deposit. For more information visit: www.rbwevcars.com.