Morgan just killed its electric 3-wheeler before it even began production. Always a question mark as to what the business case was for such a thing it’s still worth one final look. And, if you’re into this kind of vehicle there is an alternative we can show you in a bit. There has been no word on why the boutique carmaker decided to pull the plug. We do know that at one point there was an issue with getting powertrains from its chosen supplier. But Morgan isn’t walking away from EVs entirely.

The Morgan EV3 was unveiled at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show.

Morgan was having problems securing a powertrain for the quirky open-commuter right from the start. But in 2017 British company Frazer-Nash stepped up as the supplier, so we thought the EV3 was a “go.” The 1,000-pound EV would have 56 hp getting juice from a 21 kWh lithium-ion battery. That’s not a lot of power but at that weight, you don’t need a lot to scoot.

The Morgan looks almost like a 3-wheel Auto Union racecar from the 1930s

Both aluminum and carbon fiber panels were utilized helping to keep the machine lightweight and interesting. The motorcycle wheels and organic shape give it a retro vibe. It’s almost like a 3-wheel version of the infamous Auto Union Silver Arrow Grand-Prix cars of the 1930s. 

So we were expecting the EV3 was poised for release later that year. Then crickets. It was busy cranking out its retro-themed gas-powered 3-wheeler with the sources S & S Harley-type engine up front.

The retro theme continues inside with round analog gauges and a shiny 1940 Ford steering wheel

The simple interior continued the retro theme with analog gauges sporting thick, chrome surrounds. It featured a big, shiny steering wheel that looks like it came out of a 1940 Ford, and simple pleated black leather seats. Yes, it seated two.

But if you’re devastated about the news of the EV3’s demise there is still hope. The 2020 Vanderhall Edison 2 can be yours instead. All you need to snag one is a cool $35,000. 

The Vanderhall 3-wheeler is a great alternative to Morgan

The all-electric 3-wheeler is also based on a host gas-powered 3-wheeler, this one made by Vanderhall. Both front wheels are powered by a 52-kW electric motor for a total of 140 hp and 232 lb-ft of torque. Each wheel runs a belt from the motors to a planetary gear set. 

The range is said to be around 200 miles. A full charge takes about four hours on a Level 2 charging station and 11-18 hours with a Level 1 station. 

Big, round analog gauges in a simple flat dash look retro and clean. This is a simple machine so we didn’t expect much more inside. Electric power steering makes for lighter steering. A thick chunk of glass is positioned by lower support which also looks like it came off of some old boat. But in a good way.

We’d love to see an Edison 2 without the roll bar hoops

LED headlights and taillights keep electric draw to a minimum. The open-wheel look stays legal with minimal fenders that almost disappear; they hug the tires so closely. The twin roll bars are a visual distraction. We’d love to see the Edison 2 without them visually competing with the round body. However, a swoopy hardtop attaches to the hoops so they are a necessity in that regard.

So, if you’re lamenting the demise of the Morgan EV3 there’s still hope for you and your 3-wheeled dreams with an Edison 2. Tell them Motor Biscuit send ya.