Europe is set to receive what its makers are calling the first true electric sports car, and it is deliberately going against almost every modern EV trend. The SC01, a lightweight electric roadster backed by Xiaomi through JMEV, is heading to European buyers in a highly limited production run, with just 1,000 units planned.
According to Electrek, the SC01 is designed to prioritise driving feel over screens, autonomy, or luxury. Weighing just 1,356 kg and powered by a 320 kW electric motor producing around 430 horsepower, the car focuses on low mass, mechanical grip, and simplicity rather than driver assistance systems or infotainment-heavy interiors.
The SC01 uses a tubular spaceframe chassis paired with pushrod suspension and ultra-light aluminium and magnesium wheels. Its 60 kWh battery delivers a quoted range of around 500 km under China’s CLTC test cycle. That lightweight approach puts it below the mass of many internal combustion sports cars, including the Porsche Cayman GTS, giving it a clear advantage in cornering and acceleration thanks to instant electric torque.
Inside, the car continues its minimalist philosophy. The cabin features a driver-focused display, physical climate controls, and a traditional handbrake. There is no attempt to replicate the large touchscreens or semi-autonomous driving systems common in modern EVs. The design is intentionally old-school, with inspiration reportedly drawn from classic sports cars like the Lancia Stratos.
A new company, SC01 Europe, has been formed to handle sales in Western markets. Production for Europe will take place in Italy, with pricing expected to land around €60,000. While a firm launch date has not yet been announced, interested buyers can already register for a priority allocation list. Demand is expected to exceed supply given the strict 1,000-unit cap.
If the European run sells out, reports suggest the SC01 could later expand to other markets, potentially including North America via Canada. For now, the car stands as a rare counterpoint to the current EV direction, aimed squarely at drivers who want an electric car that feels raw, engaging, and unapologetically focused on the act of driving itself.
You can see more details on JMEV’s Europe website here.
