'Virtual' supercar unveiled

03 September 2004: Two former Jaguar consultant engineers have released details of their first prototype hybrid sports car.

The Connaught Motor Company's Type-D coupe features the first ever V10 hybrid engine, which can deliver 140mph, 0-100 km/h in 6.2s, and 42mpg, while still complying with ultra-low emissions targets set for 2010.

Tim Bishop and Tony Martindale's, project has to date received almost half a million pounds worth of funding from the Energy Saving Trust and has no less than 17 patents pending on its technology.

Connaught is the first virtual car company. It designs the car and manages the project, but out-sources the manufacturing.

The ultra-lightweight construction helps to realise the ambitious fuel efficiency targets while the mid-front north-south mounted engine and rear-wheel drive configuration guarantees maximum driving pleasure without compromising rear space.

A convertible ‘Eclipse’ version will have electrically-powered stacking glass panels which disappear into the boot lid without loss of luggage space.

The directors of Connaught are now seeking further investment to take the project through to production in May 2006.

©2004 irishcar.com