Produced from 1969 through 1996, the first-generation Range Rover is now widely recognized as one of the most legendary classic off-roaders and 4x4s of all time. And while it’s easy to appreciate the body-on-frame SUV’s outward appearance and aesthetic design, the same can’t be said for its objectively outdated performance. Wanting to combine the best of both worlds, UK-based upstart Inverted EV has announced that it will be building bespoke, made-to-order Range Rovers that feature modern amenities and state-of-the-art fully electric powertrains.
Offered in 2-door, 4-door, and LSE variants, each EV conversion starts with the donor vehicle being completely restored from the ground up. Designed and configured by the customer with help from the Inverted team, the conversion’s bespoke interior has been largely modernized while still managing to retain much of the DNA and feel of the original vehicle. Trimmed in sustainably-sourced Muirhead Mocha leather contrasted via Harris Tweed inserts, the cabin boasts a new AC system, USB charging ports, heated seats, a reverse camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a high-fidelity sound system. Custom backlit power mode buttons and a bespoke ignition are also present.
In place of the Range Rover’s original gas engine, Inverted has bestowed the vehicle with a reconditioned 80-kWh battery module and Large Drive Unit plucked from a low-mileage Tesla. Also benefitting from a new gearset, a new oil pump, and a limited-slip differential, this EV powertrain generates 335.5kW (450hp) and 442.5ft-lbs of instantaneous torque — figures that allow for a 0-60mph time of 5 seconds flat, which is less than half of the original donor’s 11-second time. Still sending power through a four-wheel drive system, the powertrain also features a trio of power modes (Eco, Sport, and Off-Road), all of which boast regenerative braking. Fitted with a 6.6kW onboard charger and a CCS charger that can deliver up to 100kW charging speeds, this high-end EV conversion offers a 200-mile range and a 20% to 80% recharge time of 34 minutes. The first-gen Range sees it performance further modernized through the addition of Alcon front brakes, new anti-roll bars, and adjustable FOX 2.0 Performance Series shocks.
Available for order now, the Inverted EV Range Rover Classic Electric Conversions have been priced starting from £225,000 (~ $282,750).
