As governments push for tighter fuel economy regulations, there’s a real concern that future legislation will restrict the use of classic cars. To combat this fear, Aston Martin will offer EV powertrain conversions for its heritage models.
The first classic car to receive Aston Martin’s “cassette” EV powertrain is the 1970 DB6 MkII Volante. The “cassette” is enclosed within its own self-contained cell and sits on the original engine and gearbox mountings. Cords from the power unit feed the car’s electrical systems. “Power management is operated via a dedicated screen, which is discreetly fitted to the car’s interior,” Aston Martin says. The conversion is reversible, meaning drivers can choose to reinstate the original powertrain whenever they want.
Right now, the EV powertrain conversion is in the concept phase. Expect production versions to include key components from the Rapide E. In making the concept, Aston Martin says it derived inspiration from the Rapide E and its planned new range of Lagonda electric vehicles.
Aston Martin Works, the division in charge of the automaker’s heritage models, will begin converting classic cars for customers in 2019.
The idea of converting classic cars to electric power is not a new one. As we previously reported, Jaguar will start selling electric E-Types in the summer of 2020. It will also convert old E-Types to electric power at its Classic Works facility in Coventry, U.K., and like the Aston Martin conversions, the process is reversible.
Source: Aston Martin
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