The AC Cobra Series 1 Electric is being touted as “the next chapter” in the British marque’s 120-year history. Unlike other ‘electromods,’ where classic cars are butchered re-engineered to house an EV drivetrain, each Series 1 Electric is an all-new chassis.
This electric take on a timeless car made its production debut at the British Motor Show last week. Since it was announced back in June, the response has been positive, as the first few customer deliveries are expected to take place soon.
Being a new car with a new chassis means that no original AC Cobras were harmed in the making. It also means that it’s possible to buy a classically styled, brand-new Cobra with the all-important AC chassis number straight from Britain’s oldest vehicle manufacturer. While we expect not everyone in the community to be happy with the idea of an EV Cobra, at least coming straight from the AC factory means those who would normally turn their noses up at replicas or conversions might be appeased.
See: What Future Classic Of The Present Will Be Reimagined In The Future?
Underneath the curvaceous bodywork lies a ladder chassis that has been specifically adapted for the new power source. The electric powertrain is developed in collaboration with Derbyshire-based Falcon Electric. It features a 230 kW (308 hp / 313 PS) electric motor with 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of peak torque. That’s enough to propel the 1050 kg car from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in approximately four seconds. Battery capacity is 55 kWh, which is estimated to be enough for a range of 150 miles (240 km).
Right now, the Series 1 Electric is limited to just 58 units worldwide, making this first EV from the low-volume manufacturer very rare indeed. However, AC says they’re working on a new line of electric vehicles, and are currently putting the finishing touches to an AC Cobra Series 4 Electric, which will launch soon.
