Top 10: Electrified Classic Cars

The rise of EV conversions is growing, involving some of the most iconic classic cars ever built.

From timeless British sports cars to retro German icons, electrified classics are now offering zero emission performance, modern reliability and everyday usability, without sacrificing their classic looks.

Key models, ranging from Volkswagen Beetles to Land Rover Defenders and Aston Martin DB6s, are part of this electric revolution, creating powerful yet reversible EV conversions that honour the past while embracing the future.

EV Magazine has ranked 10 of the top electrified classic cars.

10. Volkswagen Camper

Power: 90hp

Weight: 2,600-2714Kg

CEO: Oliver Blume

Acceleration: 0-60mph in 9 seconds

The electric Volkswagen camper seamlessly combines iconic retro style with modern electric performance.

It retains its nostalgic charm while replacing the original engine with a powerful, quiet electric motor, offering a smooth and eco-friendly drive.

Conversions often include a large battery, off-road capability, rapid charging and safety upgrades.

The classic camper layout remains, with modern comforts and full camping functionality.

This balance of sustainability, usability and timeless design makes it a standout choice for adventurous, environmentally conscious drivers.

9. Volkswagen Beetle

The electric Volkswagen Beetle blends vintage design with powerful electric performance.

Many conversions use Tesla motors, delivering up to 300 hp or more, transforming this iconic car into a quick, responsive EV.

It retains its beloved retro aesthetic while offering modern benefits like fast charging, up to 200 km range and improved safety systems.

With zero emissions, instant torque and reliable performance, the electric Beetle appeals to classic car lovers and EV enthusiasts alike.

8. Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud

The electric Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud merges iconic luxury with the benefits of electric propulsion.

While original models offered modest performance, EV conversions enhance acceleration, reduce emissions and improve reliability without losing the car’s elegance.

Modern upgrades to brakes and suspension boost safety and comfort.

Quiet, smooth and refined, the electric Silver Cloud retains its stately charm while embracing sustainability, making it a standout example of how heritage and innovation can coexist beautifully.

7. Land Rover Defender

The electric Land Rover Defender is a top electrified classic thanks to its blend of rugged heritage and modern EV technology.

Powerful electric drivetrains deliver up to 900 Nm torque and 0–60 mph in under 8 seconds, while preserving full off-road capability.

Battery options offer 120–170 miles of range with fast charging.

Conversions retain the Defender’s iconic look and 4WD system while upgrading brakes, suspension and safety features.

This makes it a practical, zero-emission classic for adventurous drivers seeking both capability and sustainability.

6. Volkswagen DeLorean

The electric DeLorean ranks for transforming the iconic DMC-12 into a high-performance, zero-emission vehicle.

With a 43 kWh battery and 215 hp motor, it accelerates from 0–60 mph in just 5 seconds, twice as fast as the original.

The design remains fully intact and reversible, while modern features like regenerative braking, drive modes and V2L boost practicality.

Engineered by Electrogenic, this conversion blends classic style with thrilling electric performance and everyday usability.

5. Jaguar E-Type

The electric Jaguar E-Type is a top electrified classic car for combining timeless 1960s design with a refined electric powertrain.

The official E-Type Zero conversion accelerates from 0–62 mph in 5.5 seconds, faster than the original.

A 40 kWh battery offers up to 170 miles of range while preserving the car’s weight balance and handling.

Subtle interior updates complement the iconic exterior. With smooth, quiet performance and zero emissions, it’s a sustainable evolution of a beloved British sports car.

4. Mini Cooper (Classic)

The electric Mini Cooper earns its place among the top electrified classic cars by blending iconic design with agile, modern electric performance.

Conversion kits from companies like Swindon Powertrain and Fellten deliver quick acceleration, maintaining the Mini’s nimble handling.

Battery packs offer 110–150 miles of range with fast charging, while features like regenerative braking and retro-styled instrument panels add usability without compromising charm.

With factory-backed options like MINI Recharged, the electric Mini offers a sustainable, low-maintenance update of a beloved classic, ideal for both city and weekend driving.

3. Mazda MX-5 (Miata)

The electric Mazda MX-5 ranks top 3 in electrified classic cars, combining the original’s lightweight, rear-wheel-drive charm with modern electric performance.

Electrogenic’s conversion kit includes a 120 kW motor and 42 kWh battery, achieving 0–60 mph in around 6 seconds with a range of 150 miles.

The system retains the car’s handling balance and nimble dynamics, while adding features like regenerative braking, drive modes and vehicle-to-load capability.

Designed to be fully reversible, the conversion requires no cutting or welding.

It offers an eco-friendly upgrade that respects the MX-5’s character while enhancing usability, speed and driving pleasure.

2. Aston Martin DB6

The electric Aston Martin DB6 looks to combine timeless elegance with cutting-edge electric performance.

Converted by Lunaz, a leader in classic car electrification, the DB6 features a modular battery system ranging from 80 to 120 kWh, offering up to 255 miles of range.

Its electric powertrain delivers around 700 Nm of torque, significantly improving acceleration and drivability compared to the original 4.0-litre engine.

Conversions include modernised suspension, brakes and steering to manage instant torque, enhancing safety and comfort without altering the iconic exterior.

The process is fully reversible, preserving the car’s value and heritage. Inside, the DB6 maintains its traditional styling while adding subtle modern luxuries like air conditioning, infotainment with Wi-Fi and eco-conscious materials such as recycled fishing net carpets.

With a slightly lower weight and improved centre of gravity, handling is enhanced.

1. Porsche 911

Electric conversions of the Porsche 911 typically deliver around 450 hp and 450 Nm of torque, achieving 0–60 mph in as little as 4 seconds, well beyond the original petrol models.

Battery packs of 60–63 kWh provide more than 200 miles of real-world range, with CCS fast charging enabling 0–80% in around 45 minutes.

Bolt-in electric kits preserve the 911’s original chassis, weight distribution and exterior styling, while adding subtle EV upgrades such as digital gauges.

The electric drivetrain retains the car’s rear-wheel-drive handling and includes features like regenerative braking, limited-slip differentials and drive modes for enhanced engagement.

Firms like Everrati and Fellten also restore interiors and bodywork to concours standards.