The SC-01 electric sports car is preparing to enter the U.K. market as interest in performance-focused EVs continues despite the industry’s shift toward crossovers and SUVs. Distributed by the Small Sports Car Company (SSCC), the Chinese-built coupe combines lightweight engineering with high-performance specifications in an effort to stand out in a niche segment.
SC-01 Expands Beyond China
While most modern electric vehicles are crossovers or SUVs, a small number of automakers continue to develop all-electric sports cars. One of the latest examples is the SC-01, a Chinese-built model that, according to Autocar, draws inspiration from the Lancia Stratos.
The vehicle is now making its way to the United Kingdom through the Small Sports Car Company. SSCC founder Mark Cotton has secured the U.K. import rights for the SC-01 and is working to establish three dealer partners to handle vehicle sales and servicing.
The SC-01 was created by Feng Xiaotong, founder of the China-based restoration company China Car Custom. SSCC describes the model as “the car Lotus should have built.”
Performance and Engineering
The SC-01 weighs approximately 1,380 kilograms (3,042 pounds), making it about 500 kilograms (1,102 pounds) heavier than the lightweight Lotus Elise. Even so, the figure remains notable for a fully electric sports car, as battery-electric powertrains typically add significant weight.
Power comes from a dual-motor system producing 429 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. The setup enables the SC-01 to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 2.9 seconds.
Its 60-kWh battery pack is positioned between the axles and behind the seats, creating weight distribution similar to that of a mid-engined sports car.
Focused on the Driving Experience
The SC-01 features a bespoke spaceframe chassis, manually adjustable suspension, and a minimalist cabin designed with driver engagement in mind.
The interior does not include a central touchscreen, retains a manual handbrake, and omits advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Pricing and Market Position
The SC-01 is expected to start at around £50,000, or roughly $66,000 at current exchange rates. SSCC projects first-year sales of approximately 160 units, with annual volume increasing to 360 vehicles by its third year on the market.
The electric sports car could attract buyers seeking an alternative to more established competitors, including the MG Cyberster, the upcoming Alpine A110 EV, and the electric Porsche 718.
No U.S. Launch Announced
No plans have been announced to introduce the SC-01 in the United States. Its Chinese origins could present regulatory challenges for a future U.S. launch.
The article notes that Polestar is expected to be barred from selling new vehicles in the United States beginning with the 2027 model year under rules targeting Chinese-linked connected-vehicle technology.
For now, the focus remains on the SC-01’s arrival in the United Kingdom, where the all-electric sports car will test demand for a lightweight performance EV from a lesser-known manufacturer.
