The meticulous metamorphosis of select automotive icons into avant-garde electric vehicles, a journey chronicled in the latest season of “On the Roam,” showcases a profound commitment to blending heritage with sustainable performance.
Pioneering Electrification of Iconic Land Rovers
At the heart of this initiative are two revered Land Rovers, each meticulously reimagined. The first, a distinguished 1949 Series 1 80-inch, once powered by a modest 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, now boasts a sophisticated 48 kWh battery pack discreetly housed within a custom-built, vintage-inspired enclosure. This energy reserve fuels a potent 150 kW electric motor, expertly calibrated to deliver refined torque through a proprietary 2:1 fixed-reduction gearbox. This innovative setup seamlessly integrates with the original transfer case, preserving the authentic feel and visual integrity of the iconic four-wheel-drive system, complete with its original control levers.
Steve Drummond, CEO of Electrogenic, elaborates on the core technical challenge: “The objective with the Land Rovers was to introduce electric propulsion while faithfully preserving the original four-wheel-drive transmission, the very essence of these legendary vehicles’ unparalleled off-road prowess. This transformation now imbues them with seamless, instant torque.”
The revitalized Series I demonstrates remarkable agility and endurance, offering a substantial range exceeding 150 miles. Drummond further notes, “The Series I Land Rover is now effortlessly smooth to operate, and critically, eliminates the exhaust fumes that historically found their way into the cabin.”
Complementing the Series I is an exceptionally rare 1961 Series IIA 109 Dormobile, one of only 150 produced as camper conversions. This distinctive vehicle has been outfitted with a 62 kWh battery and a 120 kW electric motor, linked via a bespoke fixed-reduction gearbox that, like its sibling, directly interfaces with the original transfer case. The interior conversion extends to modern amenities, featuring an induction hob replacing the original gas stove. Momoa reflects on the experience, sharing, “It’s an entirely new dimension; my daughter and I venturing through the forest in near silence – it’s simply magical.”
Electrifying Vintage Harley-Davidsons
The collection also features three Harley-Davidson motorcycles, representing Electrogenic’s inaugural foray into two-wheeled EV conversions. Each bike is equipped with an 11 kW Maeving hub motor integrated into the rear wheel, supported by 2.7 kWh battery packs and control units cleverly concealed within custom, period-accurate panniers.
The 1924 Harley-Davidson Model JD and its 1927 counterpart, originally propelled by 74-cubic-inch twin-cylinder engines, have been ingeniously transformed into plug-in hybrids. Their electric powertrains operate in conjunction with the original combustion engines, enabling over 50 miles of purely electric range, extendable with gasoline power.
“If the mood strikes for the traditional V-twin soundtrack, I can engage it, or I can simply switch to electric operation,” Momoa explains. “I believe every motorcycle enthusiast owes it to themselves to experience this. Your senses are processing movement and power, yet there’s an profound quietude. It allows for effortless conversation with a riding companion while traversing mountain roads on a machine that still authentically evokes the 1920s – a truly remarkable sensation.”
The 1921 Model FD has undergone a complete conversion to a fully electric motorcycle. Momoa enthusiastically declares, “This is arguably our finest creation to date… It’s simply astonishing, delivering an unparalleled smoothness. While I’ve experienced various electric bikes, including e-bicycles and e-motorcycles, the unique blend of riding an electrified vintage motorcycle is an experience unlike any other.”
Further enhancing Momoa’s adventurous lifestyle, Electrogenic has integrated battery storage into his Schutt Industries Xventure XV-2 trailer, facilitating extended off-grid camping adventures. “My lifestyle often takes me off the grid, and I have a deep appreciation for the outdoors,” Momoa states. “I aspire to remain connected with nature while adopting more sustainable practices.”
The comprehensive narrative detailing the intricate conversion process for all five vehicles is featured in the fourth episode of “On the Roam” Season 2, titled “Off the Grid,” debuting on HBO Max and Discovery+.
Business Style Takeaway: These meticulously converted vehicles represent a sophisticated fusion of automotive history and future-forward technology, appealing to discerning collectors who value both design lineage and progressive engineering. As unique electrified classics, they stand as compelling statements of personal style and potentially appreciate as significant examples of the burgeoning EV heritage market.
Based on materials from : robbreport.com