Chinese startup Tianjin Gongjiangpai Auto Technology is preparing to bring a lightweight electric sports car to Europe, with plans that could include limited production in Italy, according to media reports and company disclosures.
The model, known as the SC01 in Europe and marketed in China as the JMEV 01, is designed as a compact, high-performance electric sports car inspired by classic lightweight designs associated with brands such as Lotus. The vehicle was first unveiled in September 2022 but only entered production in China in April 2025 after a prolonged development pause. European market entry is currently planned for 2026.
See also: BYD’s Yangwang Unveils U9 Xtreme Supercar, Sets World Speed Record
TGAT is reportedly backed by Chinese electronics group Xiaomi. Lacking its own manufacturing licence in China, the startup produces the vehicle for its domestic market in partnership with Jiangling Motors Electric Vehicle, which explains the JMEV branding used locally.
The Chinese-market version is powered by a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system delivering 320 kilowatts and 560 newton metres of torque. Weighing just under 1.4 tonnes, it accelerates from zero to 100 kilometres per hour in 2.9 seconds, according to company specifications.
See also: Ferrari Unveils 849 Testarossa Hybrid Supercar, Successor to SF90 Stradale
Automotive publication InsideEVs reported that the European SC01 is expected to offer similar performance figures, including all-wheel drive and a sub-1.4-tonne curb weight, though final specifications have yet to be confirmed. TGAT has said development of the European version is being carried out independently of the Chinese programme, suggesting potential differences in tuning and configuration.
Italy has been cited as a potential production base for the European model, with manufacturing focused on what TGAT described as “select European markets.” Production volume is expected to be capped at 1,000 units, with a portion of the run likely allocated for motorsport use, according to the reports.
See also: Maserati Cancels Electric MC20 Supercar Citing Low Demand
The JMEV 01 sold in China measures 4.10 metres in length, 1.83 metres in width and 1.17 metres in height, with a wheelbase of 2.5 metres. It uses a tubular frame chassis and Enpower electric motors mounted on each axle. Energy is supplied by a 60 kilowatt-hour nickel manganese cobalt battery from CALB, positioned behind the front seats and offering a claimed range of about 500 kilometres under China’s CLTC test cycle.
If confirmed, the SC01 would place TGAT among a growing group of Chinese electric vehicle startups seeking niche opportunities in Europe through low-volume, performance-focused models.
