The Dendrobium D-1 was revealed last year as a futuristic-looking zero-emissions hypercar. Now, we have an update on what’s under the skin, and the partners working on the project.
Strong support from Williams Advanced Engineering doesn’t stop many from crying “vapourware”. Unfortunately, that’s the inevitable assumption when we’re presented with most snazzy-looking concepts that light up and do little more. However, the fact we can now see inside the D-1 is encouraging. The interior looks attractive and there’s no denying the coolness of those doors.
Dendrobium is partnering up with what could be big players in the future of EV battery development and production. The fledgling Dendrobium Automotive Limited has entered a four-way agreement with Magnis Resources, Charge CCCV (C4V) LLC and Dendrobium Advanced Technologies. C4V and Magnis will assist in the production of future high-performance and solid-state batteries.
As for the car? Odd numbers are beginning to come in, including 1,750kg weight and 1,800hp power targets. The platform, dubbed the Protocell carbon tub, has allegedly been engineered to underpin multiple models.
A star at Salon Privé
The car enjoyed some limelight at the recent Salon Privé event at Blenheim Palace, though it was arguably somewhat overshadowed by the debut of the Lamborghini Aventador SVJ.
As an exercise in design, the D-1 remains impressive, but as is the case with any new supercar, the proof will be in the performance, production and sales.
“I can honestly say that Dendrobium Automotive is one of the most exciting and future-focused businesses I’ve ever been involved with,” said Chairman and CEO of Dendrobium Automotive, Nigel Gordon-Stewart.
“You can be assured that the Dendrobium brand will become synonymous with the most exciting and technically sophisticated e-hypercars on the market and available globally.”
We’re cautiously optimistic that the D-1 might just join the ranks of the fully-realised new-age EV supercars, along with the Pininfarina PF1, Rimac, Tesla Roadster, NIO EP9 and more.
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