Morgan Aero Coupe, 2012

 

 

•  Morgan Aero Coupe, 2012

The Morgan Aero Coupe is an advanced supercar designed for practical long distance touring. The strong and rigid vehicle is inspired by the GT3 Aero that has enjoyed a number of racing victories. The enclosed cockpit of the Coupe body style takes the Aero experience onto the next level in terms of comfort with a large and secure boot in the rear for luggage.

Constructed entirely from aluminium which is a third of the weight of steel, the Morgan Aero Coupe combines performance with environmental responsibility and a high level of safety. The fixed roof and enclosed cabin give a sense of security and silence which is only interrupted by the intoxicating purr of the BMW V8. A stiff aluminium chassis cradles the 4.8 litre BMW V8 engine and the 6 speed manual or automatic transmission. The individual alloy parts are formed from tooling and hand assembled by skilled craftsmen at the foot of the Malvern hills. The pioneering Aero platform continues to demonstrate British engineering at its very best and over 1000 examples of this technology are in regular use by drivers around the world.

A Morgan Aero Coupe is a car that is designed to be durable with proven chemical coating and treatments of the rigid bonded chassis and body. Following research by the company on the road, the race track and in automotive laboratories the design of this versatile platform has been consistently improved and re-engineered. Now the Morgan Motor Company is a class leader in this chassis and car body technology.

The cockpit of the Morgan Aero Coupe is a delightful place to be. The sensation of speed is exaggerated by the enticing view down the elegant bonnet. The view to the rear makes the car easy to manoeuvre and to park. Every detail is special to Morgan and is a pleasure to behold. Ash hardwood surrounding the cockpit and doors can be hand polished in a colour of your choosing. The controls are luxurious to touch. The leather work is stitched with twin needles and combined with suede effect panels for contrast and a dynamic sporty feel. Pressure point reclining seats support the occupants strongly and great care has been taken to ensure that the driver has a masterful position from which to control the car. Reliability is ensured with the BMW V8 and a six speed automatic transmission. This can be operated in two modes, 'Sport' and 'Auto'. In 'Sport' mode the engine holds its gear to 6500 rpm and 'blips' the throttle before making a down shift. The power to weight ratio is around 320 bhp per tonne and a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) of 4.5 seconds combined with a top speed of 170 mph (273 km/h) is effortlessly achievable. The Morgan Aero Coupe comes with a full specification as standard. A powerful standard sound system creates audio definition as crisp as the lines of the exterior. However the Morgan Aero Coupe can also be customized to a person's individual taste and the choices are virtually inexhaustible.

Technical Specification
    Manual Transmission
        Engine: 4799 cc v8
        Max power: 270 kW (367 bhp) or 291 kW (390 bhp) with sports exhaust
        Max torque: 490 Nm (370 lb/ft)
        Power to Weight: 311 bhp/tonne or 330 bhp/tonne with sports exhaust
        Performance: 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.5 seconds
        Top speed: 170 mph (273 km/h)
        Fuel tank: 55 litres
        Fuel consumption
            Urban: 16 mpg (18.2 l / 100km)
            Extra urban: 32 mpg (8.7 l / 100km)
            Combined: 23 mpg (12.1 l / 100km)
        CO2: 282 g/km
        Chassis: Aluminium bonded and riveted
        Dimensions
            Length: 4147 mm
            Width: 1751 mm
            Height: 1248 mm
            Dry weight: 1175 kg

    Automatic Transmission
        Engine: 4799 cc v8
        Max power: 270 kW (368 bhp) 291 kW (390 bhp) with sports exhaust
        Max torque: 490 Nm (370 lb/ft)
        Power to weight: 312 bhp / tonne
        Performance: 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.2 seconds
        Top speed 170 mph (273 kph)
        Fuel tank: 55 litres
        Fuel consumption
            Urban: 17 mpg (16.4 l / 100km)
            Extra urban: 36 mpg (7.9 l / 100km)
            Combined: 26 mpg (11.0 l / 100km)
        CO2: 256 g/km
        Chassis: Aluminium bonded and riveted

        Dimensions
            Length: 4147 mm
            Width: 1751 mm
            Height: 1248 mm
            Dry weight: 1180 kg

Morgan Roadster, 2012

 

 

 

 

•  Morgan Roadster, 2012

The new Morgan Roadster 3.7 is deceptively fast with a Ford Cyclone six cylinder engine. Power delivery is smooth and consistent all the way up to the maximum engine revolutions of 6850 per minute. The overall weight of this aluminium car is only 950kg which spells a power to weight ratio of around300bhp per tonne. Power delivery is transmitted to the road through a limited slip differential with cone drive for good traction off the line. The 6 cylinder engine and 6 speed transmission provide an excellent combination of performance and economy. Carbon emissions are extremely low for a fast sports car.

The cockpit offers the perfect enthusiastic driver's environment with plenty of room combined with the luxury and special feel of real leather. The large well designed speedometer and rev counter are fitted into a completely new dashboard featuring electronic warning systems and digital and analogue displays for all engineering functions. There is even a stop watch to measure your lap time. The instruments and dials are framed in wood and the highest quality materials are used throughout this coachbuilt car.

The convertible roof is easy to fasten and provides a warm secure environment.

Morgan Plus E Concept, 2012

 

 

 

•  Morgan Plus E Concept, 2012

An electric sportscar with a five-speed manual gearbox has been designed by Morgan with the support of British technology specialists Zytek and Radshape. Shown as a concept to test market reaction, the radical new roadster could enter production if there is sufficient demand.

The Morgan Plus E is based on a tailored version of Morgan's lightweight aluminium platform chassis clothed in the revised 'traditional' body from the new BMW V8-powered Plus 8, also launched at Geneva. Power is delivered by a new derivative of Zytek's 70kW (94bhp) 300Nm electric engine, which is already proven with US vehicle manufacturers.

Mounted in the transmission tunnel, the Zytek unit drives the rear wheels through a conventional five-speed manual gearbox. The clutch is retained, but because the motor provides torque from zero speed the driver can choose to leave it engaged when coming to rest and pulling away, driving the car like a conventional automatic. "A multi-speed transmission allows the motor to spend more time operating in its sweet spot, where it uses energy more efficiently, particularly at high road speeds," explained Zytek Automotive managing director Neil Heslington. "It also allows us to provide lower gearing for rapid acceleration and will make the car more engaging for keen drivers."

The programme will deliver two engineering concept vehicles. The first, with the five-speed manual box and Li-ion batteries, will be used for preliminary engineering assessment while the second will be closer to potential production specification, with alternative battery technologies and possibly a sequential gearbox.

The collaborative research and development project is part-funded by a £100,000 grant from the UK Government's Niche Vehicle Network Programme, which is managed by CENEX to promote the development and commercialisation of new low-carbon vehicle technologies.

Zytek's sales and marketing director Steve Tremble said that one of the reasons for joining the consortium is to show the ease with which his company's technology can be integrated with a rear-wheel drive platform. "With maximum torque from zero rpm, electric power can deliver an immediate, thrilling driving experience," he said. "Our intention is to demonstrate drivability, performance and refinement that comfortably meets the expectations of Morgan's most discerning customers, with an easily-implementable technical solution designed to world-class standards."

Zytek's first experience with a high-performance electric sportscar was in 1997 when it converted a Lotus Elise to electric drive. The award-winning design led to engineering programmes with Chrysler and General Motors, closely followed by a long-term relationship with Daimler to develop and build electric powertrains for the smart fortwo ed (electric drive). In motorsport, Zytek was the first company to race a hybrid at Le Mans and supplied technology for the first KERS-equipped Formula 1 car to win a grand prix.

Further Information

The Niche Vehicle R&D Programme provides support and grant funding for groups of companies throughout the UK that are active in the niche vehicle sector. The programme is funded by Advantage West Midlands and the Technology Strategy Board. Managed by CENEX, it promotes the development and application of new technology to take advantage of the increasing market opportunities for lower carbon vehicles.

The Morgan Motor Company has been manufacturing distinctive motor cars since 1909. Today, the company's range combines the best of traditional elegance and craftsmanship with the latest light-weight construction techniques and a choice of high-efficiency engines that offer everything from economical daily motoring to outstanding supercar performance.

Radshape is one of the UK's leading specialist manufactures of high-precision sheet metal components and assemblies. Combining traditional craftsmanship with substantial investments in the latest production technologies allows the company to work across a wide range of low to medium volume programmes. Radshape has worked with Morgan on the design, development and production of aluminium chassis structures for more than 12 years.

Zytek Automotive has designed and integrated electric drive systems and related components for a wide range of major European and US vehicle manufacturers. The company is currently building high performance electric drivetrains from 15kW -70kW and has drives of 100kW and more in development to meet growing demand for zero emissions light commercial vehicles and high-performance passenger cars. Their UK facility can manufacture up to 6,000 E drives a year in batches as low as 100, providing vehicle manufacturers with a highly flexible specialist production resource for their low carbon vehicle programmes.

Morgan 3 Wheeler, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

• Morgan 3 Wheeler, 2012

The Morgan 3 Wheeler is launched to bring the fun and passion back to personal transport. Lift the safety catch from the "bomb release" starter, hear the massive twin cylinders detonate and choose your favourite destination.

The iconic design of the Morgan Threewheeler has been updated with 21st Century technology. The powertrain is a V Twin fuel injected engine mated to a Mazda 5 speed (and reverse) gearbox. This provides smooth "get in and drive" convenience with the thrill of extreme performance. The car is a fusion of old and new.

Safety is paramount with a reinforced tubular chassis and twin rollbars for driver and passenger. A sturdy V belt provides traction to the reinforced rear tyre. Some things have not changed. The Morgan Threewheeler still holds long distance speed records for one litre cars set in the 1930's so why change the shape? The pronounced bullet shape and the exposed chassis and aluminium tub are accompanied by the aeroplane profile of the car's sides. 

The shape is of a gentle yet powerful missile at the front leading to a beetle back tail at the rear. From the design viewpoint, the focus was set on making the car as close to an aeroplane as possible, while retaining handy extra space for driver, passenger and a holdall in the rear. But above all the Morgan 3 Wheeler is designed for one purpose alone, to make driving fun. A leather padded cockpit complete with aircraft instrumentation adds to the sense of flying on the road. The car is easy to control with compact dimensions offering a perfect view ahead and to the rear. The car seems to respond as much to thought as physical input.

Dynamism is further enhanced by what the Morgan design team calls a sporty "race on Sunday" design philosophy. The car's lines do not end abruptly but instead flow organically and echo the smooth shapes of a racetrack. The smooth profile makes the car look sleeker and lower. The sculpted bonnet and boot enhance the aerodynamic feel and the short overhangs front and rear emphasize the sports car sense of purpose.

The CHASSIS AND DRIVING DYNAMICS
Morgan chassis experts have worked on the driving experience of the new Morgan 3 Wheeler with the same passion given to the development of any new Morgan. The result is a driver's car with properties that do the sporting appearance full justice. The weight of the engine is counterbalanced by the mass of the passengers and the car has a planted feel with a very low centre of gravity to ensure it remains glued to the road. During the development process, the chassis team worked on the new Morgan 3 Wheeler in parallel with the forthcoming Morgan EvaGT. The result is a solution that features changes and refinements to virtually every single detail that affects a car's cornering capabilities.

The ENGINES
During its first year of production, the new Morgan 3 Wheeler will be available with a V twin from specialist engine builder S & S. The car is approved by US and European road transport authorities for safety and emissions. With an economical 115 horsepower the motor provides maximum power at minimum revs. Big torque spells effortless hillclimbing ability. The current focus of the Morgan Motor Company to cut CO2 emissions and low fuel consumption is very much part of the rationale behind the launch of this car. The time is right for Morgan to take a new look at the combination of acceleration, on road performance and economy. The time is right for Morgan to relaunch the 3 Wheeler.

Bespoke extras
Bespoke leather and paint are available at extra cost as on the classic Morgan. A Polished engine, stainless steel tailpipes, cowl, polished cowl,headlamps and roll hoops are also extra cost options for a more classic look.

Exciting graphic packs to compliment the Sport "race on Sunday" philosophy

High quality decals are available to give the owner the opportunity to boost the sporty attitude of the new Morgan 3 Wheeler. These include special designs including US military and British Air Force inspired logos, oval racing numbers and stripes, a fearsome shark nose, chequered winner's bonnet, official national flags and the Morgan wings.

Morgan SuperSports Junior, 2009

 

 

Morgan SuperSports Junior, 2009

The designed to be built alongside the normal range of cars at the factory, the 2/3rd scale Morgan Super Sports Junior pedal car will appeal to the younger element of the Morgan fraternity. Suitable for 6 -13 year olds, it requires energetic pedal power rather than petrol or hydrogen for forward motion. True to our core Morgan values it retains our legendary high power to weight ratio.

Made from only the highest quality materials, and featuring a cast aluminium lookalike engine, the limited run of 500 Morgan Super Sports Junior are expected to sell as fast as they move.

Morgan Eva GT, 2012

 

 

 

 

Morgan EvaGT, 2012

Company introduces a new concept for a sporting family, the Morgan Eva GT. The four seater Coupe takes its inspiration from the British sports saloons of the early 1950's. Among these were the Bristol 400 series and the Frazer Nash BMW 328. After the Second World War rationing forced designers to conserve and make the most of the materials at their disposal. 

However the pressure cooker of war had also led to an abundance of innovative engineering ideas. Steel was scarce so lightweight aluminium was used for bodywork. Smooth "in-line" straight six cylinder engines were fitted to give long distance comfort and reliability. Because the engineers had often worked on aircraft development during the war aerodynamics contributed to high but economical cruising speeds.

The Morgan Motor Company is the last survivor of these British sports car manufacturers. Of course the company is lucky enough to have 100 years of continuous success behind it and like Bristol and Frazer Nash; Morgan has a history of successful collaborations with German suppliers BMW, Siemens and Bosch. But Morgan also works with a number of young engineering companies in the United Kingdom and with world class British university research departments.

The new challenge is to make cars that are more efficient than any we have seen so far. The Morgan Motor Company is in a good position to respond to this challenge because the company is small and flexible with a proven track record of fast development cycles. It currently manufactures one of the greenest sports cars in the world, the Morgan Four Four Sport. Morgan achieves this result with the use of the new Ford 1.6 Sigma engine coupled with a light chassis. Morgan currently has a young well qualified technical team working towards a potential 5 engineering PHD's, who will make full use of research departments at the University of Oxford, Cranfield and Birmingham City to tap into a technical knowledge network to make more efficient cars. The team is helping to develop a high torque electric motor twice as powerful as others of the same weight and size and a powerful lithium phosphate battery with a higher charge density to achieve the most efficient performance for weight so far.
   
The dynamic team at Morgan has made a commitment from 2010 that they will bring out a new model every two years. The legendary sports car manufacturer will target new niches... electric sports cars, a fun weekend vehicle and the first of the new cars will be the Morgan Eva GT, a four seater Coupe aimed at young families, with a bit of drama or automotive theatre as we like to call it. This is a revolution for a car company famous for making the same car for 50 years!

The Chassis
The Morgan Eva GT makes full use of clever technologies that the Morgan Motor Company has developed to manufacture a lightweight car. Morgan was one of the first car companies to see the advantage of a bonded aluminium chassis to give rigidity but also to save weight. The Morgan Eva GT uses a further developed version of the bonded aluminium chassis of the Morgan Aero SuperSports, a chassis that successfully competes in International GT3 Sports Car Racing. Compliant with European and US safety approvals.

Bodywork
The Morgan was the first car company in 1995 to see the benefit of superformed aluminium, an aircraft technology, to manufacture smooth accurate body parts. Morgan Design have sculpted a new shape for the Morgan Eva GT that focuses on natural materials and understands their unique technical properties. Using computer technology in design and in manufacture to ensure accuracy, the parts are then hand finished to make sure they feel as good as they look. A perfect "A" class surface, minimal shut lines, hidden wipers, flush door handles and sharp creases deflect air over the surface of the car. The new Morgan Eva GT represents a philosophy of lightweight luxury that embraces authenticity, sustainability and innovation achieving its final result through the process of skilled craftsmanship.

Morgan Aero SuperSports, 2009

Morgan Aero SuperSports, 2009

 

 

Designed and engineered in house, the Morgan Aero SuperSports is a lightweight aluminium sports car with a luxurious specification. The interior features a comfortable combination of polished hardwoods, hand stitched leather and electronic technology to create a driving environment that is efficient, ergonomic and sumptuous. In spite of all this opulence the overall weight of the car is still minimal so the car is responsive to driver inputs and economical to run. The unique way Morgan can achieve this is down to our use of aircraft style superformed aluminium outer panels and the skills of our craftsmen to hand finish the assembly of each car. This technology debuted in the 100 AeroMax coupes built by the factory in 2008 and 2009.

Such was demand for this model, that Morgan have taken the decision to produce the Morgan Aero SuperSports. A limited edition, the car makes use of two aluminium detachable roof panels. These can either turn the car effectively in to a coupe or when detached bring fresh air and the aromas of the seasons to the driving experience without undue wind disturbance to spoil the journey. The panels can be stored conveniently in the boot.

The car of course benefits from the lightweight aluminium Aero chassis which is adhesively bonded for class leading rigidity. Exceeding global crash protection standards, this is also the platform used by the Morgan Aero Eight GT3 currently competing successfully in the 2009 International FIA GT3 Championship. This chassis combined with the aluminium 4.8 litre BMW V8 engine and a choice of 6 speed automatic or manual gearboxes offers an unrivalled driving experience. No other automatic car offers such dynamic power transmission.

Drawn by Matthew Humphries, and engineered for production by the experienced "Morgan Design" team, the new Morgan Aero Super Sports is due to enter production in early 2010. A deposit of £25,000 is required to ensure the supply of one of these exciting new models. It is anticipated to cost around £127,000 including VAT.