Electromods are commonplace in today’s automotive landscape, which means tuning houses must employ ingenuity in their approach. The Moment Motor Company, based in Austin, Texas, takes a unique approach by choosing its electric conversion projects selectively. Rather than converting any vehicle to electric power, the tuner carefully selects classic models that can readily accommodate an EV powertrain.
“Moment Motor Company specializes in fully engineered complete solutions that account for the incredible complexities that integrating a modern EV powertrain entails,” said Marc Davis, the company’s founder. “Our builds reverently retain the integrity and design of the original vehicle while safely applying the fun, smile-inducing exhilaration of EV power.”
As far as the company is concerned, the perfect vintage vehicle for conversion is the Mercedes 280SL roadster. It’s considered one of the great designs of that era, and its size allows for a reasonable battery capacity. More importantly, being a luxury vehicle, the smooth performance of the drivetrain perfectly complements the car’s spirit.
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The company says that the design process starts with an in-depth analysis of a vehicle. It employs state-of-the-art CAD imaging to create a 3D model of each project car, and using that, works to create an EV conversion plan that maintains the weight balance and the handling feel of the original vehicle.
In the case of the 280SL, that means a 62 kWh battery pack that offers drivers 175 miles of range. It’s connected to a three-phase permanent magnet motor that delivers 300 hp (224 kW/304 PS) and 370 lb-ft (502 Nm) of torque.
The motor features an integrated control system, and the car gets electrified brakes, steering, heating, and air conditioning, as well as updated gauges that have a classic look, to make it feel luxurious while maintaining its charm, all without having to worry about overheating engines or oil leaks.
“While the passion for these vehicles has endured throughout the decades, their functionality hasn’t stood the test of time,” said Davis, boldly. “Through our tried and true design process, we offer collectors the ability to take highly celebrated but seldomly used vehicles from their collections and convert them with electric drivetrains for everyday usage.”
Moment Motor Company is working with Unique Cars of Palm Beach to find immaculately restored 280SLs to convert. It is selling complete cars for $250,000, or it can convert one you already own for $135,000.
