The Geneva Motor Show witnessed the debut of a new electric supercar that blends Singaporean heritage with high-performance engineering. Vanda Electrics, a Singapore-based company, presented its Dendrobium model this week, a vehicle that not only turns heads with its sleek design but also delivers impressive numbers: a top speed of 320 km/h (199 mph) and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in just 2.7 seconds.
The Dendrobium, named after a species of orchid native to Singapore, was first announced as a concept in February 2016. Since then, engineers have refined its specifications, and the version shown in Geneva reflects those updates. The car's design philosophy, according to the company, is 'inspired by nature and rooted in technology,' a nod to its floral namesake and its advanced electric powertrain.
Underneath its sculpted exterior, the Dendrobium houses two inboard electric motors per axle. The front axle features a differential and a single-speed gearbox, while the rear is equipped with a multi-speed gearbox and differential. This setup is designed to optimize torque distribution and handling, though Vanda Electrics has not yet released details on battery capacity or driving range.
A Sign of the Times
The Dendrobium's arrival comes as the automotive industry accelerates its shift toward electrification. While Tesla has been a prominent player in the EV market, it is far from alone. Major manufacturers including Volkswagen, Ford, Mitsubishi, and Honda have electric vehicle projects in development or already in production. The market for EVs is expanding, and analysts expect this trend to continue as battery costs decline.
Indeed, the cost of electric vehicle batteries has fallen by 80 percent since 2001, making EVs increasingly affordable. Tesla's Model 3, for instance, is approaching a $35,000 price point, which, while not yet on par with many gasoline-powered cars, represents a significant step toward mainstream adoption.
As governments and consumers push for cleaner transportation, the number of gas-powered vehicles on the road is expected to decrease. This shift could reduce carbon emissions and contribute to efforts against climate change. While not every electric car will match the Dendrobium's performance, each one contributes to a future less dependent on fossil fuels.