Skip to main content

She ain’t pretty, but the 1,020-horsepower Ultima Evolution more than gets the job done

Don’t let the homemade look fool you. Ultima, the British sports car manufacturer based in Hinckley, has revealed its latest creation, and it is one potent home brew.

Dubbed the Ultima Evolution, the latest car replaces the GT-R and Can Am models it has manufactured since 1992. After 15 years, the well-received kit cars have been discontinued with Evolution taking their places in a few different forms.

Ultima Evolution coupe
Image used with permission by copyright holder

The most impressive, however it the top of the line option that pairs the track toy with a 6.8-liter Chevrolet LS supercharged V8 engine that produces a staggering 1,020 horsepower and 920 pound-feet of torque. That’s already a mind blowing amount of power without mentioning that its all just carbon fiber and roll cage, weighing just a little over 2,000 pounds. To put it into perspective, its like giving the Lotus Exige the power output of the Bugatti Grand Sport.

What the results is a car with a 0 to 60 time of 2.3 seconds and can shoot up to 100 mph in just under 5 seconds. It’s capable of topping out at over 240 miles per hour, but that’s reserved for drivers who are prepared to vacate this mortal coil.

Ultima Evolution coupe
Image used with permission by copyright holder

With a price at roughly $150,000 dollars, it’s a steal for the return in power shoppers are getting. If that’s a little high up for some track fun, there are around 15 different configurations available. Also keep in mind that anyone shopping from the states better have some IKEA allen keys handy: lots of assembly will be required. Those based elsewhere may be able to have a turnkey Ultima Evolution dropped off at their doorstep, ready for use.

There’s a coupe and convertible version available for the Evolution, as well as a few options to make the kit car somewhat livable, like satellite navigation. To anyone saying they don’t make “pure” performance cars anymore: you now stand corrected.

Alexander Kalogianni
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Alex K is an automotive writer based in New York. When not at his keyboard or behind the wheel of a car, Alex spends a lot of…
Rivian R2 vs. Kia EV9: battle of affordable electric SUVs
Kia EV9 GT-Line Three Quarters

The long-awaited Rivian R2 has finally been announced, and it's an excellent option for those who want an electric SUV that doesn't completely break the bank. Sure, the R2 isn't cheap -- but it's a whole lot cheaper than most other EVs out there, especially when it comes to SUVs. But Rivian isn't the only company trying to tackle the problem of the budget electric SUV. The Kia EV9 is finally available, and it too offers a modern design and a range of helpful features.

Given the fact that the Rivian R2 and Kia EV9 are two electric SUVs in a similar price range, you might be wondering which is better for your needs. That's why we put the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 head-to-head.
Design
Both the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 are actual SUVs -- not crossovers pretending to be SUVs, like plenty of other EVs out there. The two vehicles offer big, boxy designs and plenty of interior space, making them excellent options for families or those who need that extra storage.

Read more
Rivian R2 vs R1S: How will Rivian’s cheaper SUV compare?
The front three-quarter view of a 2022 Rivian against a rocky backdrop.

Rivian has finally unveiled the R2, its long-awaited attempt at a more affordable electric SUV. The new vehicle may not be available just yet, but fans of Rivian's design aesthetics and feature set are already looking forward to being able to order the new car. The R2 is targeted at being a more affordable take on the electric SUV and will sit alongside the flagship-tier R1S.

Let's get this out of the way right now: The R1S is most likely going to be a better vehicle than the R2. Rivian isn't replacing the R1S with the R2 — it's releasing the R2 as a more affordable alternative, and there will be some compromises when buying the R2 over the R1S.

Read more
Cybertruck production reportedly halted over pedal issue
Tesla CEO Elon Musk behind the wheel of a Cybertruck.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk behind the wheel of a Cybertruck. Tesla

Tesla’s Cybertruck has been hit by a production delay caused by an issue with a part of the vehicle, a number of media reports have claimed.

Read more