Wiesmann returns with EV convertible

German hand-built vehicle manufacturer Wiesmann has launched its 2022 “Project Thunderball” – an electric rear-wheel drive two-seat convertible roadster.

It ditched the typical BMW V8, replacing it with a pair of electric motors and an 83kWh battery pack with 800-volt architecture allowing it to charge at up to 300kW, and claimed to produce about 500km range, 493.5kW of power and 1099.5Nm of torque.

Wiesmann says the EV can get from zero to nearly 100km/h in about three seconds.

Pricing for the electric sports car is reported around 300,000 euros (NZ$484,162), available to order.

The company, which has its factory at Dülmen in Germany, was founded by brothers Martin and Friedhelm Wiesmann in 1988, temporarily closing in about 2014 until revived by British investors Berry and Anita Tatalovic, the firm now said to be working with Germany’s Roding Automobile which provided the powertrain and battery.

The EV’s interior includes analog gauges, a digital gauge cluster, a large infotainment screen and Wiesmann’s gecko logo on the sports seats.

The roadster’s body blends carbon fibre, aluminium, and steel and it features regenerative braking.

A limited number is expected to be produced.