Car maker, Morgan has announced its plans to develop two prototypes of electric vehicles in association with several UK firms.

The Morgan +E project will focus on the firm’s Aero Supersport aluminum chassis. The new models will use Zytek’s high power-density electric motor, instead of the 4.8-litre BMW V8 engine that features on the earlier model.

The concepts will come with standard manual gearbox and the vehicle will powered by Li-ion batteries mounted into the aluminum chassis that will be created by Radtek. Morgan aims to develop a concept that can be used to roll out models if the demand for such vehicles rises in future.

Programme manager Neil Cheeseman explained: “Keeping the motor in its 'sweet spot' will help it use energy more efficiently, which will increase the car's range. It gives us lower gearing for quick take-offs and longer ratios for top speed - and it'll make the car more fun for keen drivers!”

The initiative is partly funded by a £100,000 grant from CENEX that aims to encourage eco-friendly vehicles.