Next TVR to use revolutionary carbon build

The much-awaited return of British sports car firm TVR has received another boost with the announcement that the special ‘Launch Edition’ of its first new car will feature an evolution of ex-McLaren designer Gordon Murray’s iStream Carbon manufacturing system.

The process mates carbonfibre body panels bonded to a tubular steel frame. With the first car’s V8 engine set to produce up to 500bhp, giving a power-to-weight ratio of 400bhp per tonne, the result should be a very quick car.

Due for launch in 2017, the new TVR has already generated huge interest among enthusiasts. More than 300 have lodged deposits, prompting TVR company chairman Les Edgar to comment that the order book would be closing “shortly”.

Although all Launch Edition cars will have the Murray system, it will become a cost option for later owners. Standard cars will use GRP (glass reinforced plastic) panels on the steel tube chassis.

The revelation that TVR was coming back into sports car manufacture was made in June 2015, with engine specialists Cosworh Engineering signing up as a partner alongside Gordon Murray Design.

Our images show a teaser rendition. A final decision on styling is expected to be made public within the next few months after a car clinic process involving deposit holders.