Member Article

Raptor to be unveiled by MAN at IFSEC

A unique manufacturing collaboration is set to mark its first appearance at IFSEC International with the sector’s first look at the Raptor, a major breakthrough for policing and security patrols.

The Midlands Assembly Network, which will be in Hall 5, Stand B110, will give delegates the chance to see up close the world’s first road legal three-wheeled Electric Powered Vehicle (EPV).

Made up of ten companies specialising in mechanical, electrical and electronic engineering processes, MAN is currently working with Ecospin Ltd to turn its ambitious designs into reality.

FW Cables has already provided expert engineering and design solutions to develop a specialist wiring loom for the Raptor and other members, including Advanced Chemical Etching, Alucast, PP Electrical Systems and SMT Developments, will shortly be involved in the project.

The EPV combines the latest automotive design techniques with a bespoke electric powertrain.

A custom-made chassis, electronic differential and intuitive handle bars deliver expert control and cornering with twin rear-wheel drive providing increased traction over loose and slippery surfaces.

An elevated ride platform allows for the rider to see over crowds and increases visibility at events, with a special lithium ion battery offering speeds of up to 25 mph and an impressive 60-mile range.

Steve Gaston, Sales Manager at FW Cables and MAN, picked up the story: “We are extremely proud to be playing an important role in the development of a truly Midlands product and one that is going to have global appeal.

“Interest in the Raptor has already come from Dubai and Singapore and a police force in the UK has also expressed an interest in trials. It’s speed, agility, elevated platform and road legal status makes it ideal for security patrols.

“Initially, Ecospin are looking to build 60 vehicles and then ramp up production gradually until more than 3000 units are manufacturer per year.”

The Midlands Assembly Network includes Advanced Chemical Etching, Alucast, Barkley Plastics, Brandauer, FW Cables, Lightning Aerospace, PP Electrical Systems, SMT Developments, Westley Engineering and Wrekin Circuits.

It offers customers a central point of contact to ten firms, state-of-the-art factories and a combined 650-strong highly skilled workforce with expertise spanning from aluminium castings and precision pressings to PCB manufacture, chemical etching and cable harnesses.

Clients use the group to reduce costs and access a single sourcing strategy that boasts world class technical and prototyping capabilities.

“A lot of our members are heavily involved in the security industry, making precision components for use in fire detection, locking products and the military,” concluded Steve.

For further information, please visit www.man-group.co.uk, contact 0845 034 6676 or visit Hall 5, Stand B110 at IFSEC (May 14-17th)

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Russ Cockburn .