Watt Electric Vehicle Company (WEVC), known for designing and manufacturing low-to-medium volume electric vehicles (EVs), has introduced a unique, lightweight, high-performance architecture for electric passenger vehicles. This new platform is poised to set the stage for next-generation zero-emission sports cars and bespoke small-series EVs.
WEVC’s new architecture aims to facilitate a rapid and cost-effective transition to zero emissions for low-volume manufacturers. The platform, an advanced ‘off-the-shelf’ EV solution, meets the latest safety standards. This announcement follows the successful launch of WEVC’s UK-designed electric light commercial vehicle, the eCV1, which has garnered significant interest from major companies for fleet integration.
Central to this new passenger vehicle platform is WEVC’s Passenger and Commercial EV Skateboard (PACES) architecture. PACES is a flexible, scalable, lightweight, and cost-effective bonded aluminium platform specifically designed for low-volume production. It can be adapted to various passenger EV configurations, from sports coupes to off-road buggies, supporting front-wheel, rear-wheel, and all-wheel drive layouts. The platform meets ISO regulations and European Small Series Type Approval crash standards.
The innovative FlexTech structure system is key to PACES’ versatility. Unlike traditional large-volume aluminium skateboard designs, which use expensive and complex corner castings, PACES is built from lightweight extrusions and flat, laser-cut pieces that interlock and bond together. This method creates highly rigid and precise chassis, maintaining a variability of within 1mm across the platform. FlexTech minimizes upfront investment in tooling and machining, further reducing manufacturing costs. Additionally, its ‘module-to-chassis’ system integrates batteries into the primary structure, optimizing stiffness and reducing weight.
“Electrification is a major challenge for small series manufacturers,” said Neil Yates, CEO of WEVC. “With low sales volumes, it is difficult for these businesses to invest in new EV technology and develop it in-house. WEVC’s PACES architecture offers a sophisticated, lightweight off-the-shelf platform that is cost-effective and meets ISO and European Small Series Type Approval crash standards.”
Yates highlighted the platform’s design for low-volume manufacturing, providing an ideal structural and dynamic base for various high-performance EVs. “We are experiencing surging global demand from customers eager to launch bespoke electric passenger vehicles. Our proprietary platform allows brands to transition to EVs quickly and cost-effectively, with optimized technology tailored to their needs,” he added.
