The MW Motors Luka EV, specifically the 21.9 kWh (66 hp) 4WD variant, represents a unique entry into the early electric vehicle market. Introduced in 2015, this compact, two-seat coupe aimed to offer an affordable and environmentally conscious transportation solution. The Luka EV was primarily marketed in select European countries and served as a demonstration of MW Motors’ capabilities in electric powertrain technology. It distinguished itself through its unusual four-wheel drive system, utilizing individual wheel hub motors, and its relatively small battery capacity, prioritizing affordability over extended range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | MW Motors |
| Model | Luka EV |
| Generation | Luka EV |
| Type (Engine) | 21.9 kWh (66 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 146 km/h (90.72 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.3 kg/Hp, 81 Hp/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 21.9 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 110 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-polymer (LiPo) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range | 300 km (186.41 mi) |
| Electric motor | 4 x 17 Hp wheel hub motors |
| Electric motor location | Wheel hub |
| System power | 66 Hp |
| Kerb Weight | 815 kg (1796.77 lbs) |
| Length | 4050 mm (159.45 in) |
| Width | 1620 mm (63.78 in) |
| Height | 1220 mm (48.03 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2300 mm (90.55 in) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Four electric motors drive each wheel individually |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 1 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Luka EV’s powertrain is its most defining feature. Unlike conventional electric vehicles that utilize a central motor driving the wheels through a transmission, the Luka EV employs four independent 17 horsepower electric motors, one directly driving each wheel. This configuration provides inherent all-wheel drive capability and eliminates the need for a differential. The 21.9 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack is positioned under the floor of the vehicle, contributing to a low center of gravity. The battery operates at 110 volts. The vehicle utilizes a single-speed automatic transmission, primarily functioning as a reduction gear to optimize torque delivery from the wheel hub motors. The electric motors themselves are relatively simple in design, focusing on efficiency and compactness rather than high peak power. The choice of lithium-polymer chemistry, while common in smaller applications at the time, represented a trade-off between energy density and cost compared to emerging lithium-ion technologies.
Driving Characteristics
With a total system output of 66 horsepower, the Luka EV offers modest performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 9.1 seconds, and the vehicle has a top speed of 146 km/h (90.72 mph). The four-wheel drive system provides good traction, particularly on slippery surfaces. However, the relatively small battery capacity limits the all-electric range to around 300 km (186.41 miles) under ideal conditions. The direct-drive wheel hub motors deliver instant torque, providing brisk acceleration at lower speeds. Compared to potential higher-powered EV variants, the 66 hp version prioritizes efficiency and affordability over outright speed. The single-speed transmission means there’s no gear shifting, resulting in a smooth, linear power delivery. The steering feel, while precise due to the rack and pinion system, lacked the feedback found in more conventional vehicles, a common characteristic of early electric power steering implementations.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Luka EV was offered with a relatively basic level of equipment, reflecting its positioning as an affordable electric vehicle. Standard features included disc brakes on all four wheels, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), and a steering rack and pinion system. The interior was sparsely equipped, with basic cloth upholstery and a functional dashboard layout. Options were limited, likely including different exterior color choices and potentially a basic audio system. The focus was on providing a practical and efficient mode of transportation rather than luxury or extensive features. The lack of extensive features was a deliberate design choice to keep the vehicle’s price competitive in the emerging EV market.
Chassis & Braking
The Luka EV utilizes an independent coil spring suspension system at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. The relatively lightweight construction of the vehicle, at 815 kg (1796.77 lbs), contributes to its agility. The braking system consists of disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. The ABS system enhances safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The vehicle’s compact dimensions and relatively narrow tires (215/65 R15) contribute to its maneuverability. The suspension tuning prioritized ride comfort over sporty handling, reflecting the vehicle’s intended use as a city commuter.
Market Reception & Comparison
The MW Motors Luka EV received limited market exposure and was not widely reviewed by automotive publications. However, it was generally praised for its innovative four-wheel drive system and its commitment to electric vehicle technology. Critics noted the vehicle’s modest performance and limited range, but acknowledged its affordability and environmental benefits. Compared to other electric vehicles available at the time, the Luka EV occupied a unique niche, offering a different approach to electric propulsion with its wheel hub motor configuration. Its price point positioned it as an entry-level EV, competing with early gasoline-powered city cars. The limited production run and regional availability hindered its widespread recognition.
Legacy
The MW Motors Luka EV, while not a mainstream success, represents an interesting experiment in electric vehicle design. Its four-wheel drive system, utilizing individual wheel hub motors, remains a relatively uncommon approach. The vehicle’s legacy lies in its demonstration of the potential for distributed electric propulsion and its contribution to the early development of electric vehicle technology. In the used car market, the Luka EV is a rare find, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts interested in early EV designs. The long-term reliability of the powertrain is largely unknown due to the limited production numbers and the relatively short lifespan of the vehicle. However, the simplicity of the electric motors and the absence of a complex transmission suggest that the powertrain could be reasonably durable with proper maintenance. The Luka EV serves as a reminder of the diverse approaches taken during the formative years of electric vehicle development, and its innovative design continues to spark interest among automotive enthusiasts.
