Electric conversions of classic cars are getting more popular. The folks at ECD Automotive Design in Florida, for example, recently transformed the Jaguar E-Type into a lovely electric roadster. Classic Bentleys and Phantoms have even gotten the EV treatment in the last few months. Now another shop, this one in Texas, is following suit with a stunning Mercedes-Benz 280SL EV conversion.<\/p>\n
The Moment Motor Company in Austin is building a limited run of 280SL EVs as part of its “Signature” series of classic car conversions. Each build uses a 400-volt powertrain with a three-phase permanent magnet electric motor and a 62.0-kilowatt-hour battery pack that yields 300 horsepower and 370 pound-feet of torque \u2013 nearly twice as much as the original SL offered from the factory. The total driving range is an estimated 175 miles.<\/p>\n
That upgrade also includes modern amenities like power steering, power brakes, heating, and air conditioning to give the classic car a more modern drive and feel. Even the chrome gauges have been updated with a “kilowatt” meter and a range estimate \u2013 all to maintain that Mercedes-Benz look while adding modern touches.<\/p>\n
“Our builds reverently retain the integrity and design of the original vehicle while safely applying the fun, smile-inducing exhilaration of EV power,” says Moment founder Marc Davis.<\/p>\n