Morgan XP-1 Concept 2023

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We are proud to reveal the latest vehicle to break cover from Morgan’s engineering department, a new all-electric development project, XP-1.

XP-1 will act as the forerunner to all future electric Morgan sports cars, the experimental prototype will provide key information to Morgan’s engineers and designers as they embark on the development of the company’s first production electric models. The striking prototype is not intended for production but has been created to enhance thinking in several key areas including driving characterisation, powertrain development, in-house EV competence and training, and new feature ideation and testing. Following 12 months of design and build, XP-1 will now embark on a comprehensive testing programme over the next 18-24 months.

“We are immensely proud to be sharing XP-1 with the world and showcasing some of the first class engineering that takes place behind the scenes at Morgan. As we embark on our electric journey, this prototype will become a focal point of the engineering and design process, providing a wealth of insight and helping to build up our in-house EV capability. We are in no doubt that we can ensure future electric Morgan sports cars retain the core appeal of our current range, meaning they are fun to drive, lightweight, handcrafted and bespoke. We will be relentless in our pursuit of preserving these characteristics for our customers for generations to come. Because it is not tied to a product, XP-1 provides the unique ability for our audience to join us throughout this exciting learning phase, and we look forward to sharing future updates over the coming months.”

Matt Hole, Chief Technical Officer, Morgan Motor Company

 

XP-1 is a key tool for ensuring that the characteristics of past and present Morgan models that have attracted so many admirers, transition into future electric Morgan sports cars. Maintaining the principles of being lightweight, analogue, engaging and most importantly, a joy to drive are key to the future product strategy of Morgan’s electric future.

 

XP-1’s battery, motor and inverter combination represents Morgan’s first ever powertrain, be that internal combustion or battery electric. The powertrain, engineered specifically for XP-1, gives Morgan’s engineers complete control of calibrations to create a range of driving modes featuring a mix of driving characteristics, providing the opportunity to define exactly how an electric Morgan should drive. To aid with the identification of suitable component combinations for the powertrain – both for XP-1 and future Morgan electric models – an in-house developed full vehicle toolchain has been created by Morgan’s engineers. This toolchain is key to modelling the compatibility and suitability of a range of different powertrain components, calculating the range prediction algorithm and simulating different scenarios that can help the company to benchmark against future requirements.  The toolchain has also helped to enable aerodynamic improvements on the XP-1 over Super 3, simulating multiple design iterations to ensure maximum range and efficiency, resulting in a 33% reduction in drag coefficient.

A bespoke interior display allows for user interface (UI) experimentation. XP-1’s display will continually evolve, allowing engineers and designers to gather feedback on how users interact with the vehicle, and the best way to communicate key vehicle information in future sports cars. Other experimental features include external charge level indicator LEDs surrounding the front cowl and new aerodynamic wheel trims. 

In building XP-1, we have started the extensive process of workforce training and infrastructure adaptation. Our coachbuilding production methods mean that building up this internal knowledgebase is vital for future production of electric Morgan sports cars, focused around workshop readiness to build EVs, training for high voltage systems handling and installation of charging infrastructure.

XP-1 continues our core principle of developing cars with an undiluted driving experience. As XP-1 evolves so will its story. As a presentable prototype, it will become a visible project that takes our community along with us on our journey to electrification. You can expect periodic updates on the progress of XP-1 and to see the vehicle popping up at events, both at Morgan’s factory and further afield.

XP-1 is built on the monocoque chassis of the Morgan Super 3, discover more about Super 3. If you would like to keep up to date with XP-1 and future Morgan projects, leave your details below.