Polaris Slingshot launched

Morgan 3 Wheeler a little too timid? Wouldn't you know, the Americans have an alternative

Alright, so perhaps the 3 Wheeler comparison was a touch disingenuous. It's hard not to mention it when cars with only one rear wheel are being discussed. Because whereas the little Moggy appears a jolly little thing, a trike for tootling off to the village pub, the Polaris Slingshot is an altogether more serious proposition.

Three-wheeled X-Bow?

The name 'Slingshot' already implies a fairly intense drive, as do press pics with fully helmeted occupants. A goggles and driving gloves trike this is not.

The Slingshot is heavier than the 3 Wheeler at 771kg but is more powerful, using a 175hp 2.4-litre GM engine. The five speed-manual transmits power to that chunky rear tyre (on a 20-inch rim) through a carbon reinforced drive belt.

The Slingshot comes with more equipment than you would perhaps expect (or indeed want) from a stripped out trike. As well as power steering and ESC, there's Bluetooth (with a helmet on?), a reversing camera (on a trike?) and a locking glovebox (that one could actually be useful).

Prices start at just $20K (£11,800) over in the States for a Slingshot but UK availability is unconfirmed. See here for its promo video and attempt to suppress the urge that you may quite fancy one.