The inexorable push towards powertrain electrification means that over the next decade the motoring landscape will be a vastly different place to how it looks now. Big capacity gas-powered motors will continue to be downsized into oblivion and even hybrids will make way for pure-electric motors.
The move to zero-emissions vehicles is undoubtedly a worthy one and if you really want to you can also apply it to classics. Lunaz Design founder David Lorenz says a classic could be right there alongside the latest crop of modern cars, equipped with similarly cutting-edge technology but still retaining its timeless lines and old-world charm.
“The Lunaz mission is to define the future of classics. We preserve the past by embracing the future, making the most beautiful cars in history a relevant proposition,” explains Lorenz. The company does this by converting high-end classics to electric propulsion at their facilities in Silverstone, England. While it may not have been the first ones to come up with the idea, Lunaz Design is unusual in the fact that its proprietary electric powertrain solution can be applied to a broad range of classic vehicles.
Currently, a 1953 Jaguar XK120 has undergone the complete conversion process and will soon be joined by a 1961 Rolls-Royce Phantom V and a 1956 Rolls-Royce Cloud. The Jaguar has been fitted with an 80-kWh battery pack and two electric motors which produce 380 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Not only does the XK120 offer contemporary levels of performance and reliability but it is also equipped with fast charging capability, a regenerative braking system and the sensitive integration of modern conveniences like traction control and cruise control.
Technical Lead and Managing Director Jon Hilton has formerly worked at Renault F1 as Technical Director and brings a wealth of engineering knowledge to the company, “These cars will be true to the original in their aesthetic, peerless in their performance and effortless in their day-to-day use. To breathe new life into these classics represents vital engineering in the purest sense.”
The entire process is developed, engineered and manufactured in-house by a team that includes employees from such prestigious auto manufacturers as Aston Martin, Ferrari, Jaguar, McLaren and Rolls-Royce. The conversion includes traditional coachbuilding and restoration skills combined with modern detailed 3D scans of the vehicles. Aside from the electric powertrain and ground-up restoration, each car gets a drive-by-wire throttle setup, new electronic and heating systems as well as fully overhauled suspension, steering and braking assemblies. Prices start at £350,000 ($428,000) and Lunaz will be accepting orders from potential clients starting November 2019.
Images courtesy of Lunaz
