Carice Mk1: back to basics retro speedster a twist

Looks like a Porsche 356, powered by an electric motor, made of plastic

Continuing in the recent Hitchhiker's Guide vein, at first sight of this Carice Mk1 it's tempting to sigh "Oh no, not... another Porsche 356 replica". But the Carice is a little bit different - and not just because its makers hail from the Netherlands.

Nawww, ain't it cute?

For starters, the 356 reference is more tribute than rip-off - the people behind the project simply saying (via Google translate) they were aiming to "take away unnecessary things" and "get to the essence of motoring".

Then there's the small matter of its propulsion. Which turns out to be via an electric motor.

And not even a particularly big one. Interested buyers get the choice of 20hp or 54hp - or, if they're shopping for the 16-year-old in the family, a 5hp "Junior Version". Oh crumbs.

Sounds bad, doesn't it? But when Carice talks unnecessary essences, it really isn't kidding. For in spite of that typically heavyweight electric motor kit, the whole Mk1 is quoted at just 350kg.

The secret is in the backbone chassis design, which accommodates the lithium ion batteries in such a manner that the car is also said to achieve 50:50 weight distribution. The total lack of any kind of roof probably helps. As does the plastic bodywork.

Well the interior is very appealing at least

We can't decide if all this makes it seem interesting, or simply like a giant radio controlled car.

Our advice: don't crash it.

There are no performance stats of any kind at present, but a range-extender and even a hydrogen fuel cell are potential alternative power sources. Apparently.

Anyway, at least Carice hasn't gone entirely mad with the price, quoting a starting point of €22,000 plus tax (currently around £17,555). That's less than a used conventionalreplica, and a drop in the ocean compared to the real thing.

Initially, a run of just 10 Carice Mk1s are planned, each custom finished to the buyer's requirements - we rather like the interior of this one. But maybe that's the whale falling on our heads...