Aston Martin to offer electric conversions of classic cars

Aston Martin wants to take advantage of the growing interest in classic cars and combine it with their electrification effort to offer electric conversions of classic cars.

The British automaker says that it developed its electric conversion kit, a so-called “cassette” EV powertrain, through the development work for the upcoming Rapide E.

They wrote in a press release:

“Using knowledge acquired by Aston Martin during the final phase development of the Rapide E and future planning of the all-new range of Lagondas, the Aston Martin Works’ Heritage EV conversion employs state-of-the-art thinking and technology. Production versions of the revolutionary EV cassette will include key components from the Rapide E programme.”

This week, Aston Martin unveiled the first car to receive the new EV powertrain conversion: an original 1970 DB6 MkII Volante.

The vehicle, which they are now calling “the Heritage EV concept”, would have been originally hand-crafted at Newport Pagnell.

Aston Martin describes the conversion:

“Sitting on the original engine and gearbox mountings, the cassette is enclosed within its own self-contained cell. Umbilical cords from the power unit then feed the car’s electrical systems. Power management is operated via a dedicated screen, which is discreetly fitted to the car’s interior.”

Here are a few images of the 1970 DB6 MkII Volante Heritage EV concept:

Andy Palmer, Aston Martin Lagonda President and Group Chief Executive Officer, commented on the Heritage EV concept:

“We are very aware of the environmental and social pressures that threaten to restrict the use of classic cars in the years to come. Our Second Century Plan not only encompasses our new and future models, but also protects our treasured heritage. I believe this not only makes Aston Martin unique, but a truly forward-thinking leader in this field.”

Paul Spires, President Aston Martin Works, said that offering EV conversions will future-proof Aston Martin’s classic cars:

“We have been looking for some time to find a way of protecting our customers’ long-term enjoyment of their cars. Driving a classic Aston Martin on pure EV power is a unique experience and one that will no doubt be extremely attractive to many owners, especially those who live in city centres. We also foresee collectors adding another dimension to their collection by commissioning EV-converted heritage cars.”

The company’s Aston Martin Works division says that it will start offering Heritage EV conversions in 2019.

It should be available around the same time as the Rapide E, which is set for the first customer deliveries in Q4 2019. Only a limited production run of 155 units is planned.