Since the birth of the motor car, the ‘sports car’ has been a particularly British endeavour. Many of the greatest names of motor racing have their origins in the UK, particularly the towns and cities of the Midlands. Today, Wells Motor Cars is committed to reinvigorating Britain’s motor manufacturing heritage, from our base in the heart of England.
Wells Motor Cars evolved from the germ of an idea in 2014, imagining a lightweight, modern, sports car. One that focuses on feel, sensation and pure pleasure. In many ways, a vision that runs counter to current trends, where cars are becoming heavier, larger and more complicated – removing involvement and sensation with every additional kilo.
The aim was simple – to offer a car that delivered all-round enjoyment all year, providing a great driving experience for the enthusiast but also offering real practicality and enjoyable ownership for all kinds of customer. The car would be deliberately low-volume and somewhat under the radar, taking inspiration from the coach-built motor cars of the past, but without the expense. And so, Wells Motor Cars was born.
Design work commenced in 2016, led by a small team of experienced engineers and designers with wide-ranging backgrounds. Two years of intense CAD and development work followed. And the name Vertige was chosen – conveying lightness, dizziness and excitement.
Between 2018 and 2020, a succession of three prototypes emerged, each hand-assembled by the growing teams of engineers and craftsmen. Many thousands of miles of testing followed, on track as well as on road.
In 2021, a limited run of ‘Founder’s Edition’ cars was announced – with all cars pre-allocated. This was followed by a batch of 25 Launch Edition cars, all sold by mid 2022, with construction taking place over 2023 & 2024. The company is now taking expressions of interest for future allocations, for delivery in 2025/26.