With stricter environmental regulations coming into effect, the use of classic cars could be limited due to their old-age powertrains. To remedy this issue, Aston Martin Works has revealed its Heritage electrification concept, which is a reversible EV powertrain conversion.
Drawing upon the company’s knowledge gained from the Rapide E and upcoming Lagonda models, Aston Martin Works developed what it calls a “cassette” EV powertrain that can be integrated seamlessly into classic models, and is “sympathetic to the integrity of the original car.”
The company says the cassette system offers owners the reassurance of knowing their car is future-proofed and socially responsible, yet still remaining an authentic Aston Martin with the ability to reinstate its original powertrain if desired.
To showcase the concept, the team carried out the conversion on an original 1970 DB6 MkII Volante, whereby the cassette is enclosed within its own self-contained cell. This is then mounted on the car’s original engine and gearbox mountings, with power cords to feed the car’s electrical systems. Power management for the entire system is done via a screen that is discreetly fitted to the car’s interior.
This offering is similar to what is being done at Jaguar Classic, whereby all-electric conversions are available for the E-type, also a fully reversible process. Aston Martin Works will begin carrying out Heritage EV conversions for other customer vehicles in 2019.
“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,” said Paul Spires, president of Aston Martin Works.
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