If you’re not familiar with the Berkeley Bandit, you’re not alone as the model was introduced 60 years ago and shortly before the company went bust. While only two cars were built, the Bandit is being revived thanks to automotive industrial designer Martin Rees and motorsport engineer Simon Scleater.
Set to be launched next April, the modern-day Bandit features a retro-inspired design which was created by Lithuanian designer Vladas Trakselis. The company didn’t go into many specifics, but the Bandit will be available as a coupe and roaster with a design that “epitomizes the elegance and sportiness of the original.” The car is slated to ride on a composite chassis which uses plant-based materials, flax to replace carbon fiber and “sticky tree resins to replace the chemical resins.” The mid-engine roadster is also slated to be offered with electric and petrol powertrains.
The latter uses a Ford-sourced 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine which will produce 400 hp. It will be paired to a six-speed transmission which will enable the 700 kg roadster to run from 0-96 km/h in 3.5 seconds. The same engine will also be available in the coupe but, thanks to the extra 30 kg of weight, it will be slightly slower as the dash to 96 km/h mph will take 3.8 seconds.
Less is known about the EV variant, but
the company said it will use “electric motors and batteries developed in our
AirRaceE electric pylon racers.” The model also promises to be “accessible,
sleek and iconic.” ccording to CEO Martin Rees, “At this time when norms are
challenged by both pandemic and climate change, we need to create vehicle
solutions that are in tune with the concerns of the public and address these
with quality design and engineering solutions.”
While that’s all well and good, only time
will tell if the Bandit becomes more than some sleek renderings.
