Warwickshire’s Wells Motor Cars is preparing to increase production of its featherlight Vertige coupé, aiming for roughly a dozen cars this year and doubling that output in 2027.
First unveiled at the 2021 Goodwood Festival of Speed, the 850kg mid-engined sports car embodies founder Robin Wells’ vision of a compact, lively, and everyday-friendly performance machine.
The Vertige began life as a design exercise before engineering, with Robin Hall—whose résumé includes the Mika Meon electric buggy, FBS Census sports car, and work at Mini and Jaguar Land Rover—crafting a bespoke chassis to suit its tiny proportions.
Under the bonnet sits a straightforward yet capable Ford Duratec 2.5-litre four-cylinder, delivering 208bhp in standard form.
An R specification adds 250bhp, pushing the power-to-weight ratio to a spirited 212.5bhp per tonne.
Inside, the Vertige balances classic motoring with modern convenience. Drivers find traditional dials, a modest touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, and a wide palette of custom trims and upholstery.
“Think of your various Sevens and scaffold-type cars,” Wells told TheCarsDaily. “I want the sensation of something alive and peppy, but with proper structure.
Peace of mind and quietness of mind is the new luxury, and that’s the philosophy I’m following here.”
The car’s simplicity extends beyond the driving experience. Heated windscreen, Bluetooth, and double-glazed rear glass make it practical without overcomplicating life behind the wheel—a rare blend of analogue joy and modern usability.
For enthusiasts seeking raw engagement without endless menus, the Vertige promises to be a rare find.
