Top 6 Retro Electric Cars

In recent years, the car collector community has seen the rise of 'Restomod' (Restoration + Modification), which blends the classic appearance of vintage cars with modern design details, configurations, and performance. This approach allows these vehicles to retain their nostalgic charm while functioning on the latest technology. Today, Kwiksure will introduce six classic retro electric cars, allowing you to experience a blend of retro and futuristic aesthetics within the cabin.

1. LYNX Motors DeLorean DMC-EV

If you've seen the movie "Back to the Future," you are likely familiar with the eye-catching DeLorean DMC-12 that can travel through time. As electric vehicles gain popularity, LYNX Motors has decided to launch a modern electric version of this iconic car, originally born in 1981, and expected to hit the market in 2025.

The DMC-EV features an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system and is equipped with a 70 kWh battery, with an estimated range of 402 km. Acceleration from 0 to 96 km/h is expected to be completed in under 4 seconds. While maximum horsepower and torque figures are not provided, they are believed to cater to high-performance enthusiasts. Additionally, it includes safety features such as side impact protection and a traction control system to enhance vehicle safety and stability.

The interior also adds several modern elements, featuring a large-screen dashboard that spans across the cabin, allowing the owner to view various driving information and control all vehicle functions. The center armrest is equipped with a rotary controller that features a screen, adding a sense of technology and practicality. The DMC-EV is a limited-edition release, and although it is positioned in the luxury market, its price of nearly 2 million HKD is still quite astonishing.

2. Hyundai PONY

Hyundai developed the small four-door hatchback PONY and the PONY Coupe Concept in 1974. The former launched at the end of 1975 and became Hyundai's flagship model for many years; the latter was showcased at the 1974 Turin Motor Show but never made it to market due to the global economic situation.

In 2021, Hyundai initiated "The Heritage Series PONY" project, reassembling classic models from decades ago with modern technology. The PONY has been transformed into the PONY EV electric concept car, which was displayed at the Busan International Motor Show. The design closely resembles the original PONY, featuring LED headlights in the same round shape and taillights that echo the front lights. The cabin adds many tech elements amidst the retro design, replacing the tachometer with six light tubes displaying battery level and speed, and adding a touchscreen and phone dock.

Nearly 50 years after its first debut, the PONY Coupe Concept electric vehicle was showcased in Italy in May 2023. The PONY Coupe Concept is regarded as a classic of retro-futurism, with its rectangular front and round headlights inspired by the legendary DeLorean DMC-12. Its sleek lines and long hood paired with a sloping rear create a unique and innovative character. The reassembled PONY Coupe retains its original appearance, measuring 4.1 meters in length, with a minimalist interior design featuring a single-spoke steering wheel and elongated barrel-shaped seats for a futuristic aesthetic.

Although the PONY Coupe never made it to market, its classic status remains unchanged. The electric models IONIQ 5 and the hydrogen hybrid concept car N Vision 74 from Hyundai in recent years have drawn inspiration from the PONY Coupe, even appearing as a vehicle in the popular game "PUBG."

3. Charge Cars The ‘67 (Ford Mustang Fastback)

UK-based car manufacturer Charge Cars has officially licensed the design to recreate Ford's classic Mustang Fastback from 1967, transforming it into an electric vehicle that was released in 2022, with a limited production of 499 units worldwide.

The manufacturer maintains the original silhouette of the Mustang Fastback while incorporating modern elements. The car features a closed black grille, and the round headlights and three-arrow-shaped brake lights have been replaced with LEDs. The interior includes several modern designs, with a central upright screen paired with a digital dashboard, functional buttons on the steering wheel, and a push-button transmission; For the color scheme, tan was used to evoke a vintage feel.

Performance-wise, the all-wheel-drive (AWD) electric Mustang Fastback uses a 63 kWh battery, providing powerful performance with a maximum horsepower of 400 kW and torque of 1,520 Nm. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds, with an approximate range of 322 km, supporting 50 kW fast charging that takes about an hour to charge from 0 to 80%.

4. KALMAR 7-97 E-Volt (Porsche 911(964))

Danish manufacturer KALMAR Automotive has introduced the electric modification of the third-generation Porsche 911 (code 964), which was born in 1989, called the 7-97 E-Volt. It features an electric motor and a refurbished Tesla Model S drive system, while the body largely replicates the Porsche 911 but uses linen plant carbon fiber, reducing carbon emissions by 78% compared to traditional carbon fiber, and incorporates recycled materials like aluminum and glass, aligning with a green color theme to reflect the company's commitment to sustainability.

The vehicle is equipped with modern amenities such as rain-sensing wipers, electric power steering, a Bluetooth sound system, and Apple CarPlay support. The seats can be customized based on the owner's preference for materials and accessories. Performance-wise, the 7-97 E-Volt delivers a maximum power of 308 kW and torque of 600 Nm, achieving 0-100 km/h acceleration in under 4 seconds, with charging from 20% to 80% completed in 15 minutes and a range exceeding 322 km.

5. Everrati Mercedes-Benz W113 SL Pagoda

The first-generation Mercedes-Benz W113 debuted in 1963 as a two-seater convertible sports car, representing the second generation of the SL (Super-Light) series. It features a boxy, elongated, and elegant design with a unique high-window structure, and its slightly concave removable hardtop resembles Japan's Pagoda architecture, hence the name.

After restoration by Benz experts, UK-based Everrati has kept the classic exterior and interior design intact as much as possible, offering two versions: Standard and Touring. The original inline-six engine has been replaced with 54.4 kWh and 68 kWh batteries, providing ranges of 257 km and 322 km, respectively, with acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 8 seconds and 7 seconds, with a top speed of 200 km/h. Like other classic cars reimagined with modern technology, the W113 SL Pagoda has a high price tag, with the standard version reaching HKD $3.25 million before taxes.

6. Renault R17

The Renault R17 was launched in 1971 and became a classic hatchback car of the 1970s. Renault has recently recreated this model, with design oversight by renowned French designer Ora Ïto. The electric version of the Renault R17 closely replicates the old car's lines, maintaining the rigid body’s metal lines complemented by a nearly flat engine hood. The old four round-shaped headlights have been replaced with four rectangular LED units, adding a futuristic touch to its retro design.

The interior uses materials and textiles from the 70s, predominantly in brown and beige to create a warm retro atmosphere, replacing the original round dashboard with four square panels embedded with screens and using red lighting, as red light is less stimulating for the eyes at night. The powertrain has been upgraded from a 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine to a 199 kW electric motor, with a switch from front-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive and an estimated range of 400 km. Unfortunately, the Renault R17 was only showcased at the Paris Motor Show in October and had no plans for mass production.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a retro electric car?

A retro electric car is a classic antique car that has been integrated with modern features and performance, replacing its original engine with an electric motor.

How to purchase a retro electric car?

Most retro electric car models released by brands are only for display purposes. However, some classic reshaped models are produced for sale, like the LYNX Motors DeLorean DMC, the Mercedes-Benz W113 SL Pagoda, and the Charge Cars The ‘67.