Two BMW engineers and an engineer from Robert Bosch Motorsport have been seconded to Morgan over the last two years to work with Morgan in the development of a bespoke engine management system for the Aero 8’s BMW engine. The engine is BMW’s very latest 32-valve, 4.4-litre V8 featuring the VANOS variable inlet valve timing system, cruise control, on-board diagnostics, an immobiliser and drive by wire technology. As part of the agreement between Morgan and BMW, all of Morgan’s 44 dealer’s worldwide will receive full BMW training on the new engine, drivetrain and engine management system.

Aero 8 prototypes have completed thousands of miles of extensive testing, both at BMW’s advanced test facility in the South of France, and at other locations throughout Europe where hot weather testing was conducted at temperatures in excess of 40^oC. Using the BMW facility, prototypes were run extensively at maximum speed and tested to the same exacting standards as BMW vehicles, in order to fine tune the Aero 8’s positive handling, performance and smooth ride.

In addition to weeks on the proving ground, Morgan conducted a benchmarking exercise to evaluate the Aero 8’s performance, ride, handling, cabin noise levels and passenger comfort against the competition.

Morgan has worked closely with other top automotive suppliers in the selection of high quality, lightweight and technologically advanced materials and components. As a result, the Aero 8 employs leading edge technology in many of its unique features. The new Morgan is the first production car, for instance, to use a new Triplex glass with invisible heating elements in all its windows.

The V8 engine is mated to a six-speed manual Getrag gearbox, and is the first manual box to have a self-adjusting clutch to provide constant pedal performance throughout the lifetime of the clutch. The Aero 8’s rear transaxle is a BTR hydradrive with limited slip differential, another feature carried over from the GT2 race car.