Morgan Super 3 Returns to the US: Staying True to Tradition
The Morgan Super 3, with its retro-futuristic appearance, has always turned heads. And now, it is set to make a return to the US market. Morgan recently announced that the latest model of its three-wheeled vehicle will be federalized for sale in the US. With a few discreet reflectors and the headlights moved inboard, the Super 3 will have an even more spidery look.
For a small car maker like Morgan, sending a modern car into the wild while staying true to the company’s long-standing ethos and values is no easy task. However, Morgan has managed to take advantage of the fact that trikes are subject to different regulations than four-wheelers. This allows them to maintain their unique design while complying with US regulations.
In contrast, some volume manufacturers have struggled to stick to their roots when venturing into new markets. Lotus, for example, has faced criticism for its new Lotus Eletre SUV. Commenters argue that it lacks the simplicity and lightness that are synonymous with Lotus. The 2500kg 4×4 doesn’t drive like a traditional Lotus either.
This is a challenge that lightweight car manufacturers will increasingly face. A Rolls-Royce can weigh 2.9 tonnes and still feel like a Rolls, but a lightweight car like a Caterham will have to work harder to maintain its identity when introducing new models.
While the weight of the Lotus Eletre may not matter if it helps the company achieve its sales targets, there is something to be said for manufacturers that can face the future while preserving the qualities that made their cars unique in the first place.
Protecting the Working Man’s SUV
While driving along the M25, I noticed a hand-scrawled note taped inside the rear window of an early 2010s Land Rover Defender 110. The note read, “Essential Working Vehicle.” It was a simple message, but it spoke volumes about the perception of large SUVs in urban areas.
The Land Rover Defender 110 is known for its noisy, cramped interior and heavy driving experience. It’s a vehicle that serves a purpose, often used by those who require a rugged and capable vehicle for work. However, there seems to be a need for some owners to justify their choice of transport.
The note may have been a plea to prevent theft, but it also seemed like a response to the judgment and criticism faced by those who drive large SUVs in urban settings. It’s unfortunate that anyone should feel the need to justify their choice of vehicle to strangers.
The Land Rover Defender is a durable vehicle that can last a lifetime and offers decent fuel efficiency. There are many other cars on the road that don’t offer these benefits but don’t attract the same level of criticism as a 4×4.
As an owner of an old Defender myself, I have always enjoyed driving it without fear of judgment. However, incidents like this make me question why I feel the need to keep a sticker on my window that celebrates the Pony Club’s 90th anniversary.
Conclusion
Morgan’s decision to bring back the Super 3 to the US market demonstrates their commitment to their heritage and values. By federalizing the latest model, Morgan has managed to maintain the unique design of their three-wheeled vehicle while complying with US regulations.
On the other hand, some volume manufacturers have struggled to preserve their identity when expanding into new markets. Lotus’ new SUV has faced criticism for deviating from the brand’s values of simplicity and lightness.
In a similar vein, owners of large SUVs like the Land Rover Defender often feel the need to justify their choice of vehicle. This is unfortunate, as these vehicles serve a purpose and offer unique benefits.
Ultimately, it is commendable when manufacturers and owners can stay true to their roots while facing the challenges of the modern world. Whether it’s a small car maker like Morgan or an individual driving a large SUV, there should be no need to justify their choices to others.