Vanwall, the revived car brand, is progressing with its plans to introduce an electric version of its Vandervell model, two years after the initial announcement. The company has partnered with Hyundai Motor Group to use its E-GMP electric platform, with plans to launch two all-wheel-drive variants.
When the market launch was first announced in January 2023 for the third quarter of the year, Vanwall faced skepticism regarding its ability to meet the timeline. At that time, the company only released renderings of the model, and production details were scarce. As the deadline passed without production commencing, the brand has continued to work towards its goal, now with the support of Hyundai’s E-GMP platform.
Despite limited official information, Vanwall has disclosed performance details for the two variants. The Vandervell H-GT will feature 239 kW, which corresponds to the regular all-wheel-drive version based on the E-GMP, with an 84 kWh battery. The high-performance Vandervell N-GT will feature 478 kW, aligning with the powertrain found in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and Kia EV6 GT. The N-GT Thin Wall Special will also have 478 kW, but with a weight under 2,000 kilograms.
“The distinctive all-carbon fiber bodywork guarantees unprecedented weight optimisation in this vehicle category,” Vanwall said in a statement. “The efficient aerodynamics, sporty chassis and significantly lower weight both increase the range and release the performance of a racing car at the push of a button.”
Colin Kolles, who is leading the Vanwall relaunch, added, “I was always a convinced petrol-head through my F1 involvement and activities in other racing categories, and thus I was initially a critic of EVs. However, I now have to say that I’m a convert.” He expressed confidence in the car’s design and performance, stating, “The reactions of people who have seen the Vanwall Vandervell are overwhelming. People stop in amazement when they see this car. Thus I know that we have created something truly great and unique, not only from a performance point of view, but also in terms of styling.”
Vanwall has not provided an official production timeline or location, though it previously indicated that the cars would be manufactured in Germany.