Electrified DeLorean to Star at Salon Privé 2024
At the Salon Privé 2024, an electrified DeLorean DMC-12 will take centre stage, showcasing the future of classic cars. The vehicle, renowned for its role in the Back to the Future films, has been revitalised by the internationally acclaimed EV technology company Electrogenic.
The company's custom 'plug and play' EV conversion kit transforms the 1980s supercar, giving it the performance its futuristic design always deserved. The upgraded DeLorean boasts over 150 miles of real-world electric driving and compatibility with the latest CCS rapid chargers for quick recharges.
A timeless design
The DeLorean DMC-12 was the brainchild of former GM executive John DeLorean and was crafted in collaboration with Lotus. Launched in 1981, this Belfast-built car is known for its striking wedge shape, iconic gullwing doors and unique stainless-steel bodywork, which remains rust-free decades later.
Despite its innovative design, the car's original Renault V6 engine could have been a stronger point, offering only 130hp due to stringent US emissions regulations, which resulted in a lacklustre performance. Remarkably, three-quarters of the 9,000 DeLoreans manufactured are still on the road today.
Transformative performance
Electrogenic conversion addresses the DMC-12's primary shortcoming by replacing the original engine with a powerful electric motor delivering nearly 220hp. The setup, coupled with a fixed-ratio gearbox driving the rear wheels, allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds, significantly improving from the original ten-second time.
The conversion includes a 43kW battery pack strategically placed under the front luggage compartment and above the rear electric motor, ensuring optimal balance and performance. The transformation enhances acceleration and introduces features like adjustable regenerative braking and multiple drive profiles, ranging from the efficient 'Eco' to the high-performance 'Sport.'
Futuristic features
The electrified DeLorean incorporates several futuristic features in homage to its cinematic legacy. It has a touchscreen Apple CarPlay and a custom virtual dashboard displaying drive modes, battery usage and charge status.
The car's air conditioning system has been upgraded and it includes vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, allowing owners to power other devices or even charge another vehicle while on the go. These enhancements make the DeLorean a classic car and a modern marvel equipped for today's technology-driven world.
Enthusiastic reception
Steve Drummond, CEO of Electrogenic expressed excitement about the DeLorean DMC-12's upcoming showcase at Salon Privé 2024, stated:
"Our engineering team has been blown away by the response it gets from the public; it generates interest and excitement like nothing else,"
The DeLorean remains a beloved icon, continually drawing fans eager for photos and a closer look. Its presence at the event is expected to captivate attendees, highlighting the vehicle's unique place in automotive history.
A perfect fit for Salon Privé
David Bagley, Director of Salon Privé, shared his anticipation for the DeLorean's feature at the event by stating:
"The world-famous DeLorean is always a huge draw and this development from Electrogenic creates arguably the finest DMC-12 ever. The engine was always its weakest link, so replacing it with a powerful, long-range electric drivetrain arguably turns it into the high-tech sci-fi car it should have been."
Electrogenic's base in nearby Kidlington, Oxfordshire, adds a local flavour to the international event at Blenheim Palace. Bagley is eager to see the reaction from both UK and international guests to this impressive innovation. The electrified DeLorean promises to be a highlight of Salon Privé 2024, merging nostalgia with cutting-edge technology in a seamless blend of past and future.
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