Summary
- Rolls-Royce is known for the quietness of its luxury cars and is now working on a near-silent electric powertrain for classic models
- Evice is one of the companies offering electric conversions for classic cars, with a prototype Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow sedan known as XP1
- The prototype has a 77-kwh battery pack providing over 200 miles of range, 400 hp output, and upgraded brakes and suspension
- The interior features modern amenities like climate control, audio systems, power-adjustable seats, and touchscreen infotainment
- Other companies like Lunaz are also restoring classic electric cars, with Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Jaguar models being converted with modern powertrains.
Article
Evice, a U.K.-based company, is focusing on converting classic cars, starting with a Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow sedan known as XP1. The prototype features a 77-kwh battery pack that provides an estimated range of over 200 miles and an 800-volt electrical architecture. With an output of 400 hp, the electric powertrain is substantially more powerful than the original gasoline V-8 engine. Evice has also upgraded the brakes and implemented an active suspension system to offer a comfortable ride similar to the original hydra-pneumatic suspension system.
In addition to Evice’s Silver Shadow conversion, several other companies are also restoring classic cars with modern electric powertrains, including vintage Rolls-Royces. U.K. firm Lunaz has converted a 1956 Rolls-Royce Cloud and a 1961 Rolls-Royce Phantom V, as well as Bentley and Jaguar models. Some automakers have also commissioned electric conversions of classic cars to align with their electrification plans. For example, Electrogenic created a Kia Pride EV restomod to celebrate the automaker’s 80th anniversary, and apprentices converted an Audi A2 into an EV.
While companies are converting classic cars to electric power, Rolls-Royce itself is working on producing new electric models, such as the Spectre coupe. The luxury brand aims to change its traditional image of producing heavy vehicles with gas-guzzling engines by transitioning to all-electric models by the end of the decade. In the meantime, companies like Evice are offering conversion packages for classic Rolls-Royce models like the Silver Shadow and Corniche convertible, providing customers with the option to enjoy the luxury and style of classic cars with modern electric powertrains.
The interior of Evice’s converted Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow features modern amenities such as climate control and audio systems, heated and ventilated power-adjustable seats, and a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and a rearview camera. The company aims to maintain the classic appeal of the Silver Shadow while updating it with modern technology and performance enhancements. This approach is reflected in Evice’s other projects, such as the Rolls-Royce Silver Corniche EV, which combines classic design with cutting-edge electric powertrains to offer customers a unique driving experience.
With the increasing demand for electric vehicles and the focus on sustainability and emissions reduction, the conversion of classic cars to electric powertrains has become a popular trend among enthusiasts and collectors. Companies like Evice and Lunaz are paving the way for a new era of classic car restoration, offering customers the opportunity to enjoy iconic models with modern electric propulsion. As the automotive industry continues to shift towards electrification, the conversion of classic cars to electric powertrains presents an exciting opportunity to preserve automotive history while embracing sustainable technology and innovation.
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