Poms show off 640km Aura sports car prototype
A striking new road-legal two-seater prototype has been rolled out to showcase British technologies that could help shape the future of electric vehicles.
The Aura sports car is powered by a rear-wheel drive electric powertrain capable of range beyond 640km between recharges. Drive comes via two 44kWh batteries.
Four British companies have been involved in the creation of the Aura, which was built during the pandemic lockdown and is now touring the UK.
Design was handled by Astheimer; Potenza Technology was in charge of batteries and electric motors; BAMD Composites developed the body panels and vegan interior and Conjure was responsible for the human-machine interface.
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Backing for the project came from the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles through the Niche Vehicle Network.
Aura aims to reduce environmental impact through lightweight natural composites including for body panels, low-drag surface design such as the rear wheel spats and optimised location of battery cells and motor.
In-cabin updates are designed to eliminate range anxiety and maximise real-world driver feedback. Range readings can be up to 99.5 percent accurate.
The Aura is packaged innovatively. One battery is up-front, and the other underneath the car’s chassis, providing neutral weight distribution and improved driving dynamics. It also means that the packs can easily be accessed for maintenance.
The project’s creators have not disclosed performance or acceleration figures for the Aura, but the e-motor is rear-mounted.
The Aura is also fitted with large diameter low rolling resistance wheels and tyres.
A five-inch, self-levelling, circular steering wheel-mounted display provides the key information such as range, weather and other relevant driving information.
It working together with a ten-inch vertical touchscreen in the middle of the cabin. Both screens will be run by one single computing unit.
A virtual 3D view real-world performance and aerodynamic views also updates the driver and allows them to manage their driving styles to maximise their range based on their surroundings.
By the way, Aura is roofless, which seems a bold move in the UK!
