SSC Reveals Electric Sports Car with Impressive Range and Affordable Price
Chinese start-up Small Sports Car (SSC) has unveiled its first-ever car, the SC-01, an electric two-seat coupé that aims to become a “national sports car” for China. With a price tag of around ¥300,000 (approximately £39,000), the SC-01 offers an impressive range of 310 miles and is expected to be available for sale later this year.
Impressive Performance and Design
The SSC SC-01 boasts a sleek and compact design, measuring 4085mm long, 1820mm wide, and 1162mm tall. Weighing in at 1300kg, it is similar in size to popular petrol-engined sports cars like the Alpine A110 and Audi TT. The car features a mid-mounted battery positioned behind the driver cabin, as well as electric motors at the front and rear.
With a total power output of 429bhp, the SC-01 can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 3.9 seconds, providing drivers with an exhilarating experience. SSC claims that the car offers “pure driving pleasure” thanks to its powerful electric drivetrain.
Impressive Range and Battery Positioning
One of the standout features of the SC-01 is its range. The car is said to offer a range of 310 miles (500km) on the NEDC test cycle, making it suitable for long-distance journeys. However, figures using the WLTP system have not been revealed yet.
The battery positioning in the SC-01 is also worth noting. By placing the battery behind the driver cabin, SSC achieves better weight distribution and lowers the car’s center of gravity. This design choice not only enhances handling but also reduces the car’s height and wind resistance, resulting in improved overall performance.
Innovative Chassis and Minimalist Interior
The SC-01 features a spaceframe chassis with horizontal, pushrod-driven shock absorbers. This design choice contributes to improved rigidity while keeping the car compact. The chassis ensures that the SC-01 delivers a dynamic and engaging driving experience.
Inside the car, SSC has opted for a minimalist approach. The interior is said to be devoid of an infotainment screen, with all controls operated through traditional switches and buttons. This simplicity allows drivers to focus on the road and enjoy the driving experience without distractions.
Availability and International Markets
SSC plans to start deliveries of the SC-01 in the fourth quarter of this year. However, it is currently unclear whether the car will be available in international markets such as Europe or North America. For now, SSC is primarily targeting the Chinese market, positioning the SC-01 as a “national sports car” for China.
Conclusion
With its impressive range, affordable price, and sleek design, the SSC SC-01 has the potential to make waves in the electric sports car market. While initially targeting the Chinese market, it remains to be seen whether SSC will expand its availability to international markets. Nonetheless, the SC-01 demonstrates SSC’s commitment to producing high-performance electric vehicles and showcases China’s growing presence in the electric car industry.
Additional reporting by Will Rimell