RBW EV Cars, the sole UK-based manufacturer of new, hand-crafted British classic sports cars, has introduced its first left-hand drive Roadster and GT models at the esteemed Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. These electric vehicles, inspired by iconic British sports cars of the 1960s and 1970s, mark RBW’s debut models designed specifically for the U.S. market. Notably, the global debut of the RBW GT showcases the first production of this electrified coupe, initially conceived by the legendary Italian design firm, PininFarina.
Display at Pebble Beach
From August 15th to 18th, the left-hand drive RBW GT and Roadster models are featured at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Visitors to the Concours Village can immerse themselves in a distinctly British-themed exhibit, where they can engage with both vehicles, explore the brand’s heritage, and interact with the Roadster and GT through intuitive touch-screen kiosks and exclusive video content.
Performance and Design
The RBW GT, boasting an Italian design influence, represents a fusion of performance and classic British sports car elegance in an electrified form. The patented EV subframe developed by RBW ensures that the GT maintains rear-wheel drive and achieves an optimal 50/50 weight distribution. As a coupe variant of the Roadster, this two-door classic is set to receive a performance upgrade next year, projected to lower its 0-60 MPH acceleration time to under 8 seconds. The RBW Roadster, now available in left-hand drive, allows U.S. customers to enjoy a traditional British driving experience with a range of up to 160 miles.
RBW’s Commitment to Craftsmanship
Peter Swain, CEO of RBW EV Cars, remarked, “The introduction of our first left-hand drive Roadster and GT models underscores the growing appeal of our classic EV British sports cars in the U.S. market.” RBW, established seven years ago, embarked on a mission to electrify and hand-build the iconic sports cars of the 1960s and 1970s. Today’s launch is a significant milestone, showcasing the engineering, operational, and manufacturing efforts that have culminated in these new models for the North American market.
Family-Centric Values
RBW’s identity as a family-operated business shines through in every aspect of its operations, from meticulous quality control to the hand-crafted assembly of each Roadster and GT at the company’s state-of-the-art factory in Lichfield, England. The brand’s name, derived from the initials of the founder’s three children—Rose, Becky, and Wesley—symbolizes the family’s deep involvement in RBW’s growth and success. Production will soon expand to RBW’s new U.S. factory, with a formal announcement expected on August 16th.
Pricing and Personalization
The RBW Roadster is available starting at $139,000 USD, with the eagerly awaited GT model priced from $151,000 USD. Customers can tailor their RBW Roadster and GT using the online configurator on RBW’s website, choosing from a variety of paint colors, rooftop styles, interior finishes, and wheel designs. The website supports multiple languages, and interested buyers can inquire through it.
Modern Features in a Classic Package
While the RBW Roadster and GT capture the timeless appeal of 1960s and 1970s British sports cars, they are equipped with modern technology to meet the demands of today’s drivers:
- 9-inch Pioneer touchscreen system with seamless smartphone integration
- Support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- DAB/DAB+ digital radio featuring CarAVAssist App, Spotify, Waze, Bluetooth, and a 13-band graphic equaliser
- Satellite navigation
- 16 standard paint colors with bespoke options available
- 9 standard leather choices with bespoke options available
Technical Specifications
- Curb weight: 2,535 lbs. (Roadster); 2,668 lbs. (GT)
- Certification: Compliant with ECE REG 100 H/V for IVA and new vehicle registration
- Top speed: 90 mph (electronically limited)
- 0-60 acceleration: Under 8 seconds
- Range: 160 miles
- Batteries: Six Turntide Lithium-Ion GEN4 modules
- DC Charging: 7 KW
- Recharge time: 4 hours
- Suspension: Custom double wishbone and adjustable coil-over damper technology
- Braking: All-wheel disc brakes with front and rear regenerative braking
- Steering: Adjustable power steering with comfort to sport range setting. https://rbwevcars.com/build-yours/
