Minister sees Morgan's new 'green' car

Sports-car manufacturer Morgan unveiled its latest ultra-green prototype recently, when Business Secretary John Hutton visited the firm’s Malvern plant. The new car, produced with help from the industry support agency Accelerate, has very low carbon emissions. Morgan’s vehicles are traditionally made from wood but also feature other materials such as aluminium, which is light. The firm only produces around 700 cars a year.

The Life Car, as the new prototype is dubbed, also uses a Qinetiq fuel cell that gives zero emissions at point of use. It has a range of 250 miles and can do 0-60mph in under 7sec, reaching top speeds of 80-85mph. Morgan’s executive director, Charles Morgan, said: “The future of motor manufacturing is about conserving energy. This is something we’ve always considered, but our new car goes beyond that.

“Over-production results in cars being forced into the market via discounts, the effects of which are felt most in terms of the rapid depreciation of new cars. We make cars that are built to last for 20-35 years. That in itself is a huge saving, and the design is a classic that never becomes obsolete.

“The low vehicle weight already achieves maximum performance and, as a result, reduces emissions. Furthermore, we are on target to satisfy the Government’s criteria for independent small-volume manufacturers.”

Morgan is set to celebrate its centenary next year; it is the world’s oldest family-owned car manufacturer. Working closely with Accelerate and Advantage West Midlands, the firm provides jobs for almost 160 people and is one of the area’s largest employers.