Classic EV conversions are one of the fastest-growing trends in the current automotive world. As regulations regarding fuel use continue to become stricter, petrolheads fear losing historic vehicles to the past. However, EV conversations are a possible ray of sunshine amongst a collection of dark clouds.

One company that is taking on the challenge is British EV regeneration specialist Inverted, which has announced the launch of its debut model, an electrified Range Rover Classic. With high performance as its top priority, #001 model is the first example of its kind to be road registered in the UK and is delivered with sustainability in mind.  Inverted will source the desired Classic model, available in 2-door, 4-door or LSE specification and work in tandem with customers to provide bespoke and tailored solutions.

The EV Range Rover Classic is powered by a reconditioned low-mileage Tesla 80kWh battery module and Large Drive Unit. A 0-60mph time of around 5 seconds is achieved thanks to its new gearset, oil pump and Limited Slip Differential, helping to produce 450bhp and 600 Nm of torque. Depending on your surroundings, three different drive modes, Eco, Sport and Off-Road provide varying power outputs and regenerative brake levels.

 Four-wheel drive is also retained, and the original axles have been restored and upgraded to reflect the significant increase in power. Alcon front brake provides the required stopping power. #001 is equipped with the optional road handling pack, featuring adjustable shock absorbers, anti-roll bars and 25% stiffer springs which provide the required balance between handling performance and comfort.  So feel free to take your Range across the most challenging of terrains and watch it succeed with ease.

But how much range does the Range have? 200 miles is the extent of its mileage, and a 20% to 80% charge can be achieved in around 34 minutes at a rapid charge point, thanks to its 6.6kW on-board charger and a CCS charger that can deliver up to 100kW charging.

Preserving the heritage of the Range Rover brand is another priority, with the exterior of each car being returned to its former glory, retaining and enhancing the classic styling it is known for.

The interior is designed to create luxury and modernity without detracting from the original features, and each car is tailored to the customer’s bespoke colour and trim specification. Also inside, the car has all the features needed to bring it into the modern day, with soundproofing, air conditioning, central locking, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, reverse camera, high-end sound system, heated seats, and USB charge points all equipped.

Originally manufactured by British Leyland in 1969, the Range Rover Classic has been frequenting our roads, with production eventually stopping in 1996 under the banner of Land Rover Ltd., having been superseded by the second-generation version. It has been one of the most long-lived vehicles in production and can count itself as an influence in the creation of the Land Rover Discovery. Created as “A Car For All Reasons”, Range Rover succeeded in their goal to create a vehicle that was equally capable on the road as it was off it. Critical acclaim has not been short in numbers, and across its 26 year production, 326,070 vehicles were made.

Electric conversions are seemingly here to stay. Recently, we published an article about the company Electrogenic’s Land Rover conversions and how they were being trialled in the British Army. The company was also at the recent Salon Privé London as well as others who offer similar services.

Perhaps, this is the compromise that must be made in order to preserve, and still use, the classic cars that we’ve all known and loved for decades.

Pricing starts from £225,000 +VAT and bespoke orders can now be placed. Order quickly though, as to ensure rarity, a maximum of only six examples will be built each year.

Words: Mike Booth
Pictures: Inverted LTD