Classic Rolls-Royce goes electric
Up to 30 classic Rolls-Royces are set to be restored with electric powertrains by British conversion specialists Lunaz.
The Phantom V and Silver Cloud variants will be offered in a range of body styles, including four-door limousine, two-door coupé and drop head coupé.
The Phantom V draws power from a 120kWh battery pack, while the Silver Cloud draws power from a 80kWh battery pack.
Lunaz claims both cars have a range of 300 miles (482km).
The Phantom V also has a fully integrated infotainment system, climate control, and rear passenger screens.
Both variants are equipped with the capability for home and rapid charging.
The Silver Cloud was built by Rolls-Royce between 1955 and 1966, while the Phantom V was built between 1959 and 1968.
Pricing for the Lunaz restored Silver Cloud starts from £350,000 (approximately AU$643,000) plus on road costs.
Pricing for the restored Phantom V starts from £500,000 (approximately AU$920,000) plus on road costs.
This makes the Lunaz variant more expensive that than a brand new BMW-built Phantom, which is priced from AU$902,000 plus on road costs in Australia.
Lunaz also offers electrified restorations of the Bentley S2 Flying Spur and the Jaguar XK120.
Using modern electric motors to power classic cars is not a new concept however, and last month Drive reported that VW was considering offering conversion kits for its historic Kombi, Beetle, Kubel and, Karmann models.
Melbourne-based startup Jaunt is currently converting original Land Rovers into zero-emission off roaders.
Jaguar unveiled the E-type Zero in 2017 (pictured above), and the following year Aston Martin announced plans to begin electric conversions on some of its classic cars.
In 2018 Coffs Coast restaurateur Danielle Wallace had her 1971 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow elecrtrified by Melbourne-based company Sea Electric.