The SC01 electric sports car from Chinese startup Tianjin Gongjiangpai Auto Technology (TGAT) delivers 320 kW of power and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds while weighing under 1.4 tonnes, targeting select European markets with production limited to 1,000 units in Italy.
This lightweight EV, inspired by Lotus and classic designs like the Lancia Stratos, emphasizes driving dynamics over screens and ADAS, arriving in Europe in 2026 after its China launch as the JMEV 01. For enthusiasts seeking an engaging electric sports car, the SC01 challenges the tech-heavy trend with its tubular chassis and minimal interior, but limited production raises questions on pricing and availability.
Background: TGAT’s Rise and Xiaomi Backing
Tianjin Gongjiangpai Auto Technology, a startup reportedly backed by Xiaomi, unveiled the SC01 prototype in September 2022, but development paused until its China launch as the JMEV 01 in April 2025. Lacking its own manufacturing license in China, TGAT partners with Jiangling Motors Electric Vehicle (JMEV) for domestic production, hence the dual naming.
For Europe, TGAT formed SC01 Europe to handle sales and development independently from the Chinese version, with prototypes now in validation. Production will occur in Italy, focusing on ‘select European markets,’ and includes motorsport allocations from the 1,000-unit run. Recent official images signal imminent 2026 arrival, with a priority list open for buyers.
The company’s emphasis on lightweight construction—a tubular spaceframe chassis with aluminum and magnesium components—sets it apart in a market dominated by heavy battery-laden EVs. At 1,356-1,365 kg, it undercuts the Porsche Cayman GTS by about 40 kg, promising superior cornering and straight-line speed.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | Dual electric motors (Enpower, 160 kW each), all-wheel drive, 320 kW (429 hp) total |
| Torque | 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) |
| 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) | 2.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 200 km/h |
| Weight | 1,356-1,365 kg (under 1.4 tonnes) |
| Dimensions | 4.10 m L x 1.83 m W x 1.17 m H, 2.5 m wheelbase |
| Battery | 60 kWh NMC from CALB, behind front seats |
| Range | ~500 km (CLTC) |
| Chassis/Suspension | Tubular spaceframe, pushrod suspension, lightweight aluminum/magnesium wheels (5.9 kg each) |
| Production | 1,000 units in Italy for Europe, part for motorsport |
Performance Analysis: Lightweight Powerhouse
The SC01’s dual-motor setup—one Enpower unit per axle—delivers instant torque for its 2.9-second sprint, aided by a low 1,356 kg curb weight that enhances agility. Pushrod suspension and a balanced battery placement behind the front seats optimize weight distribution, mimicking classic sports cars. Sources note its potential to outpace a Porsche Cayman GTS in corners due to the mass advantage and electric torque.
Top speed hits 200 km/h, suitable for track use, with motorsport versions planned. However, European specs remain unconfirmed beyond AWD and 2.9 seconds, as development is separate from China. Real-world WLTP range from the 60 kWh pack could fall short of CLTC’s 500 km, a common discrepancy.
Design and Interior: Driver-Focused Minimalism
Lotus-inspired styling meets Lancia Stratos vibes in a compact two-seater with a tubular frame and aluminum body. The interior rejects screens for physical controls, a traditional handbrake, and essential gauges, prioritizing ‘raw, mechanical’ feel. This anti-ADAS stance appeals to purists tired of menu-diving EVs.
Lightweight 5.9 kg wheels reduce unsprung mass, sharpening handling. Yet unanswered: exact European battery supplier, final tuning, and crash test compliance for Italy-built units.
Production and Market Strategy
Italy assembly circumvents tariffs and boosts ‘European-made’ appeal, but at 1,000 units, supply is tight—part reserved for racing. A priority list is live, hinting at quick sell-outs. Pricing floats around €60,000 ($70,000), though unconfirmed; Chinese JMEV 01 is cheaper, but Europe demands homologation costs. Xiaomi’s backing aids tech, but TGAT’s startup status raises reliability questions.
Comparison with Competitors
| Model | Power (kW/hp) | 0-100 km/h (s) | Weight (kg) | Price (est. €) | Production |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SC01 | 320 / 429 | 2.9 | 1,356 | ~60,000 | 1,000 units |
| Porsche 718 Cayman GTS (ICE) | 294 / 394 | 4.5 | 1,396 | ~100,000 | Mass |
| Toyota GR GT3 (concept, EV) | N/A | N/A | Lightweight focus | N/A | Future |
| Alpine A110 (ICE) | 221 / 296 | 3.5 | 1,102 | ~65,000 | Mass |
The SC01 undercuts the Cayman on weight and acceleration at a lower price, beats Alpine on power, but lacks its refinement; no direct EV rival matches its limit.
Verdict
The SC01 excels as a driver’s EV with proven Chinese specs adapted for Europe, ideal for track-day enthusiasts wanting sub-1.4 tonne thrills without screens—but only if it delivers on handling promises and WLTP range. At 1,000 units, it’s for early adopters comfortable with startup risks; wait for drive reviews before committing, as pricing and exact EU specs remain unconfirmed.
