No matter how far in technology we progress, the love for the classic roots can never fade. The interest for the classic and heritage cars is in fact, growing in order to understand and improvise better.
Aston Martin Lagonda has a plan to preserve this rich history. The company is creating the world’s first reversible EV powertrain conversion which has been conceived as an integral part of the company’s wider EV strategy.
Developed around a ‘cassette’ EV powertrain, the objective is to mitigate any future legislation to restrict the use of classic cars by offering a zero emissions conversion.
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Aston Martin uses the knowledge that they gained 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 will see production versions receive the EV cassette which includes key components from the Rapide E programme.
The first car to undergo the radical new EV powertrain is an maiden 1970 DB6 MkII Volante. It will have the original engine and gearbox mountings, while the cassette is enclosed within its own self-contained cell. There will be cords from the power unit, which will then feed the car’s electrical systems. The entire management is operated through a dedicated screen, which is fitted to the car’s interior, in a quite subtle manner.
The cassette system leaves the owners assured of the fact that their car is future-proofed and socially responsible according to the contemporary scenario, yet still an authentic Aston Martin with the ability to restore its original powertrain, when desired.
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“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.”, says Andy Palmer, Aston Martin Lagonda President and Group Chief Executive Officer, on the Heritage EV concept.
The Heritage electrification concept has been led by Aston Martin Works at Newport Pagnell.