Morgan Threewheeler Returning in 2011: First Official Photos

The original Threewheeler was Morgan"s backbone for more than 40 years. Fast, yet economical returning up to 42 US mpg, it was very successful back in the day, both on the road and the race track. Now, some 58 years after its demise, the British automaker is planning the return of the Threewheeler with a new model that will go on sale next year.

The company describes the 2011 Threewheeler as "a fusion of modern technology into a classic design", and a perfect solution for 21st century transportation.

The firm"s engineers envisioned a tubular frame, dressed in durable aluminum, both lightweight (500 kg or 1,102 lbs) and aerodynamic. That translates into less work for the 100bhp 1.8-liter V-Twin Harley Davidson engine, which transfers power to the rear wheel through a Mazda-sourced 5-speed gearbox, and more driving pleasure for the owner.

Morgan says the 2011 Threewheeler can complete the 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) dash in just 4.5 seconds, and go on to reach an estimated top speed of 115 mph (185 km/h). Not bad for a 100 hp (75 kW) car.

The exterior"s classic design cues were carried over to the cockpit, which is clad with leather, complemented by exposed anodized surfaces. Buyers will be able to customize the cars to their own liking.

Morgan didn"t provide any information on pricing.

By Csaba Daradics

2011 Morgan Threewheeler Highlights

Weight: 500kg (Est.)?
Power: 100bhp (at wheel) (Est.)?
Top Speed: 115mph (Est.)?
0-60 : 4.5 seconds (Est.)?
Engine: 1800cc "V twin" ?
Gearbox: 5 speed + reverse ?
Super formed aluminium body?
Motorcycle homologation?
Choice of 8 sport colours?
Gloss black wheel arches and lamps?
Gloss black wire wheels?
Matt black exhausts + gloss heat shield?
Nickel colored cowl?
Super formed aluminium body?
Gloss black roll hoops?
Twin flyscreens?
Black or tan leather ?
Leather seats, dash and side pads?
Exposed tubular black chassis?
Leather steering wheel + alloy centre?
Black anodized dash panel?
Aluminium "aircraft" toggle switches?
Body Colored trim panels?
"Bomb release" style start button

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Morgan Threewheeler

The Morgan Threewheeler is returning to the roads, 58 years after production of the original version ceased.

Due to go on sale in 2011, the new car will be powered by a 1,800 cc Harley-Davidson V-twin with around 100 bhp (74 kW / 101 PS), connected to a Mazda five-speed transmission. That should be enough to accelerate the 500 kg lightweight from 0-60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.5 seconds, before taking it onto a top speed of a windy 115 mph (185 km/h) - flying goggles might be a good idea.



The Threewheeler is constructed from super formed aluminium bodywork over a tubular steel chassis frame. Additional protection is provided by individual rollover hoops behind the driver and passenger seats, but there’s no hood to keep the weather off.

Aviation clearly provided the inspiration for the design of the cockpit, which features a black anodised dash panel, aluminium 'aircraft' toggle switches and a 'bomb release' style starter button.



In the UK at least, the Morgan Threewheeler will be homologated as a motorcycle. That means anyone who holds a bike licence will be able to drive it.

Pricing is yet to be confirmed, but Morgan is saying that the first batch of cars will be built to a ‘standard’ specification. These will be available in a choice of eight paint colours, together with black or tan leather for the interior. After that, customers will be able to order more bespoke versions.