The SC01 electric sports car from China is heading to Europe later this year, positioning itself as a direct competitor to Alpine and Porsche’s upcoming electric sports cars.
The compact two-seater promises to deliver what its makers call “the first electric sports car done properly.” With its spaceframe construction, the SC01 weighs just 1,365kg – making it significantly lighter than most electric vehicles on the market.
That’s more than 100kg lighter than the Alpine A290 and over 500kg lighter than the MG Cyberster.
The all-wheel-drive SC01 uses two electric motors to produce 429bhp, enabling a 0-62mph sprint in just 2.9 seconds. Its lightweight design gives it a substantial advantage in the electric sports car segment, where battery weight often compromises performance.
Taking Aim at European Rivals
The SC01’s specifications put it on a collision course with Alpine’s upcoming A110 EV. The French manufacturer claims its electric sports car will weigh less than 1.5 tonnes while packing at least 500bhp.
The SC01’s founder has specifically named Porsche as a core rival, suggesting the car will also compete with the electric Boxster when it arrives.
Other potential competitors include the sub-1,000kg Longbow Roadster and Caterham’s Project V, both approaching full production.
The SC01 runs on a 60kWh battery pack that delivers up to 311 miles of range under China’s CLTC testing cycle. Real-world European range figures will likely be lower under more stringent testing standards.
European Production Plans
The car results from a collaboration between tuning startup Tianjin Gongjiangpai Auto Technology, car maker JMEV, and tech giant Xiaomi. It launched in China last year as the JMEVV 01.
Reports suggest European models will be built in Italy rather than imported from China.
The company plans to strictly limit European production to 1,000 units, stating the car “will never be offered again” after this run.
In China, the SC01 starts at roughly £24,500. However, CarNewsChina reports the European version will likely cost around €61,000 (£53,500) – more than double the Chinese price.
The company hasn’t confirmed official European launch dates or final pricing. More details are expected when the car receives its full reveal on January 24.
The SC01’s arrival represents another step in Chinese manufacturers’ push into European premium markets, particularly in the electric vehicle segment where traditional performance advantages are being redefined.
