The programme is called Morgan +E, and will produce two pure-electric prototype concepts, both based on the Morgan Aero Supersport’s aluminium chassis. The Aero Supersport’s BMW-sourced 4.8-litre V8 engine will be replaced by a new derivative of Zytek’s electric powertrain.

Zytek has had previous experience developing electric powertrains for vehicles, starting with a Lotus Elise that it equipped with electric drive back in 1997. Since then, the company has cooperated with both Chrysler and General Motors in producing electric car programmes, and more recently, striking a deal with Daimler to develop and build electric powertrains for the Smart Fortwo ED (electric drive).

The Morgan concept models will make use of a new derivative of Zytek’s 94bhp, 300Nm electric powertrain, which the company says is already supplied to U.S. automakers. The electric motor will be fed by a Li-Ion battery pack integrated into the Aero's aluminium structure. The concepts will send power to the wheels via a conventional manual gearbox.

“Keeping the motor in its sweet spot will help it use energy more efficiently, which will increase the vehicle’s range,” explains Zytek’s engineering programme manager Neil Cheeseman. “It also allows us to provide lower gearing for rapid acceleration from pull-away and higher gearing for top speed. It should also make the car more engaging for keen drivers.”