The RBW Roadster is a low-volume electric roadster from RBW Electric Cars, built in the UK and aimed at buyers who want a classic open-top sports car with modern EV hardware. It is a two-seat, rear-wheel-drive model that sits in a premium niche rather than the mainstream EV market.
Vehicle identity
RBW positions the Roadster as a specialist model, not a mass-market commuter EV. Its body style is a two-seat roadster, and the rear-wheel-drive layout suits the car’s classic sports-car character. What makes it notable is the combination of retro-inspired design and a purpose-built electric platform, which gives it a different identity from most converted classics.
Powertrain and charging
Published specifications have varied across reports and market versions, so some details should be treated carefully. Earlier coverage places the battery in the mid-30 kWh to mid-40 kWh range, with around 155 to 160 miles of range on the WLTP cycle, while newer references mention larger-battery versions and different outputs. Charging is generally described as taking about eight hours on a 7 kW home charger, but a clearly verified DC fast-charging figure has not been consistently published for every version.
Price and market position
Pricing has also changed depending on market and model year. Early UK reporting put the RBW Roadster at about £83,000 to £90,000, while newer examples and U.S.-market references moved higher, including figures around £108,000 and about $139,000. That pricing puts it in collector and enthusiast territory rather than everyday EV ownership.
Who it suits
The RBW Roadster is best suited to classic-car enthusiasts, collectors, and buyers who want a hand-built electric sports car with strong visual character. It is not the most practical choice for daily family use or value-focused commuting, but it makes sense for buyers prioritizing style, rarity, and driving feel.
Brand lineup and rivals
Within RBW’s own range, the Roadster sits alongside the RBW GT, giving the brand a small two-model classic-EV lineup. Its closest outside rivals are the MG Cyberster and the Mazda MX-5, though the comparison is not exact because the RBW is far more bespoke. For SEO purposes, the MG Cyberster is the strongest direct comparison because both are open-top sports cars aimed at style-first buyers.
RBW Roadster Images