News: British car maker Trident launches 68mpg diesel car with top speed of over 190mph

A DIESEL car that can do over 190mph, sprint from 0-62mph in less than 4 seconds and cover 2,000 miles between fill-ups has been launched by a British car maker.

The Iceni, claimed to be the world’s fastest and most fuel-efficient diesel sports car, is one of three new models being launched by Trident; the others being the Iceni Magna, a fastback, and the Iceni Venturer, an estate.

All three are powered by a 6.6-litre V8 Isuzu diesel engine, modified and re-engineered to produce 424bhp and 950 lb ft torque. An optional engine upgrade yields 650bhp and 1057 lb ft.

In standard form the Iceni sprints from 0-62mph in 3.7sec, while uprated versions can crack 3.2 seconds. It cruises at 70mph at just 950rpm.

The car has two fuel tanks, but Trident’s claimed 2,000-mile range was achieved with the fitment of an optional third tank, bringing the car’s combined fuel capacity to 135 litres. Trident claims the Iceni can return 68mpg at 70mph.

The Iceni’s impressive power and economy figures are the result of Trident’s patented torque multiplication technology ‒ a combination of features including the car’s engine, specially designed six-speed automatic gearbox and traction control system.

The Iceni has a stainless steel monocoque chassis and a composite body, both designed and manufactured by Trident. The complete car weighs 1610kg.

“We make almost everything for the Iceni, so customers can order their car in a colour and trim of their choice,” said Phil Bevan, managing director of Trident, based in Swaffham, Norfolk.

The company, founded in 2005, claims to have the capacity to build 500 cars a year but says it can make a profit building just 12. Prices for the Iceni start at £96,000.