No, this isn’t a concept. The Luka EV electric car by MW Motors is a production car, but one with a foot (or wheel) firmly in the 1960s.
But note that the car is still in production, so isn’t quite ready for the showroom yet. But the finished model is unlikely tho change much before it does hit the market.
That’s a good thing obviously, as this is a dream of a car. Bringing to mind classic coupe cars of the 1960s, it hints at the likes of the Volkswagen Karmann Ghia and the Volvo P1800 for example, without specifically copying either of those models. If you like that kind of hip ‘60s vehicle but want the performance of a modern-day car, this might be for you.
In fact, when we say modern-day, we really mean it as the Luka EV is an electric car. A combination of a lightweight car and the battery pack means up to 300km (186 miles) driving range. That battery can also charge up to 80 per cent in around an hour.
It isn’t the whizziest of vehicles, but a top speed of 90mph and 0-62mph in 9.3 seconds should be enough for most of us.
Some interesting tech at play here too. Open the boot and bonnet and there’s no motor. In fact, there are four motors in the wheels, which means extra space for your luggage at the front and back.
Less interesting is the interior. Billed as being ‘retro outside, future inside’, the car is incredibly mainstream inside, at odds with the hip retro exterior. Yes, you get the likes of a digital instrument cluster, an infotainment system, three-spoke steering wheel and black leather seats with contrast stitching, but I just wish someone had given it all a vintage makeover. After all, if someone has fallen for the outside, they would probably want an interior finish in keeping. Here’s hoping someone picks up on that in the coming months.
Still, that’s a minor quibble on a car I desperately want to take out for a drive. If you do too, then you can contact the maker MW Motors to get your name on the list. Be nice to know a price before you do that, but sadly one isn’t forthcoming just yet. If I get more details about that or the date of launch, I will update the article.
Luka EV at the MW Motors website
