The Allure of Electric Power in Classic Car Restoration
The electric vehicle revolution has ushered in a remarkable shift in the custom and bespoke car industries, with batteries and electric motors taking center stage. Restoring classic vehicles to their former glory through electrification has become a tantalizing possibility, and while it may not yet be a widespread trend, it’s already yielding some astonishing results.
A Star-Studded Conversion: Sophia Loren’s Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II
In the realm of classic cars, few names shine as brightly as Sophia Loren’s, a legendary figure in classical Hollywood cinema. Now, her iconic 1960 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II has undergone a dramatic transformation. Originally owned by Loren, this luxury vehicle resides in the hands of a Portuguese establishment known as The Largo, a four-star hotel in Porto.
A Rebirth with an Electric Heart
Recognizing the need to rejuvenate this classic Silver Cloud for modern use, The Largo turned to Lunaz, a renowned EV conversion specialist. Lunaz, recognized for its expertise in converting luxury vehicles, including Aston Martin, Bentley, Range Rover, Rolls-Royce, and Jaguar, has crafted a bespoke electric powertrain for this iconic Rolls.
A Modern Powertrain Shrouded in Classic Elegance
While exact specifications of the electric system remain undisclosed, Lunaz’s track record includes fitting a Jaguar XK120 with an 80 kWh battery and electric motors producing 380 hp. More recently, a 1961 Bentley S2 Continental boasted 400 horsepower. The transformation of the Silver Cloud not only introduces a modern electric heart but also enhances the vehicle with heated seats, Android and Apple Carplay compatibility, USB charging ports, parking cameras, and a six-inch display.
A Prelude to Luxury Electrification
The Silver Cloud’s role extends beyond a luxurious ride for hotel guests; it marks the inaugural project in a series of similar electrified builds by Lunaz for hotels worldwide. The upcoming lineup includes electrified Bentleys, Rolls-Royces, and even a Range Rover.
Elegance Comes at a Price
While the electrification of classic cars offers an enticing alternative to traditional restoration, it doesn’t come cheap. Lunaz’s electric vehicles tailored for hotels commence at a base price of £550,000, equivalent to $694,000 at the time of this writing.
FAQs:
Q1: Why are classic cars being electrified?
A1: Electrifying classic cars offers a viable way to restore and rejuvenate them for modern use, benefiting from the advantages of electric power while preserving their timeless charm.
Q2: Who owned the 1960 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II before its conversion?
A2: The Silver Cloud II was previously owned by the iconic Hollywood actress Sophia Loren.
Q3: What upgrades were introduced during the Silver Cloud’s electrification?
A3: In addition to the electric powertrain, the Silver Cloud received heated seats, compatibility with Android and Apple Carplay, USB charging ports, parking cameras, and a six-inch display.
Q4: What other classic vehicles will Lunaz be electrifying for hotels?
A4: Lunaz has plans to electrify various luxury vehicles, including Bentleys, Rolls-Royces, and a Range Rover, for use in hotels worldwide.
Q5: How much does Lunaz’s electrified classic car conversion cost?
A5: Lunaz’s electrified classic cars designed for hotels start at a base price of £550,000, which is approximately $694,000.
