Scotland’s supercar

Keating isn’t the only new British sports car firm aiming to make its mark. Meet the Falen. Named after a Scottish demon, it is the creation of Gleneagles-based design studio Dowdeswell and Hardie, but before you go thinking this is another pie-in-the-sky creation that will never make the leap from CAD drawing to road-going reality, it’s worth pointing out that respected engine builder Judd is already on board with the project.

If all goes to plan, a prototype will be running early next year and the car will be unveiled at the Geneva motor show in March – a very public stage for what will be a very exclusive car.

Only four Falens will be built in total, all using a mid-mounted 5.5-litre V10 that develops over 800bhp, mated to a five-speed transaxle gearbox. Different transmissions are currently being assessed, but the powerplant is confirmed as the Judd GV5 S2 – a pure-bred, highly respected racing engine that’s the most popular unit in the LMP1 class.

Judd is currently developing the engine to make it suitable for road use, the obvious concerns being refinement and driveability. The unit weighs only 130kg, and Dowdeswell and Hardie is targeting a 1000kg kerb weight for the Falen, achieved by using a full carbonfibre monocoque and bodyshell. Instead of conventional doors the cockpit’s roof and glass area hinges backwards to provide access.

Measuring less than 4.2 metres long, the Falen is shorter than a Porsche 911 and is aimed at trackday enthusiasts. It will also feature components sourced from British suppliers wherever possible. You can keep an eye on its progress and development via the firm’s website at dowdeswellhardie.com