THE LUXURY REPORTER
Auto
Cars Go Electric The world is embracing electric cars, but how ready is Nigeria? In this report, ANGEL JAMES, finds answers, even as some classic cars are going electric.
E
lectric cars are taking the world by storm, and it seems Nigeria may not be ready for it yet. From modern to classic, cars are assuming a new form of engineering with electricity. It is now becoming common in Europe and some parts of the United States, to see charging stations at shopping malls for cars. Owners can conveniently charge their vehicles while shopping. Automobile manufacturers are already responding to this trend. For example, Jaguar has upgraded its classic E-Type Zero as a complete car package based on a fully restored 1960s original costing around N376,710,990 (£850,000) or as an upgrade to an owner's existing car. Meanwhile, Aston Martin has created an electric power train for the rare and valuable DB6 Mk2 Volante. Just 38 of which were built, Prince of Wales owns one of them. As with the E-Type Zero, the Aston Martin conversion is entirely, relatively and easily reversible to preserve the originality of the car. The electric DB6 has been developed in association with Aston Martin's broader EV (electric vehicle) strategy, which has already seen the creation of the Rapide E model and the revival of sister marque Lagonda, which will come to market as an all-electric SUV shortly. Andy Palmer, Lagonda president and group CEO, tells FT's How To Spend It that the move to engineer the electric DB6 and “protect the maker's treasured
heritage” was brought about by the impending threat to restrict the use of classics due to environmental and social pressures. Paul Spires, president of Aston Martin Works heritage department, which built the car, describes the experience of driving the DB6 EV as “unique” and something that will appeal to many enthusiasts, especially those who want to use their cars in urban environments. “Given the historical signi cance of these cars, it's vital that any EV conversion is sympathetic to the integrity of the original model. The cassette system is the perfect solution, reassuring owners of knowing their car is future-proofed and socially responsible. Yet remains an authentic Aston Martin that can have its original powertrain re tted if desired. Collectors are also adding another dimension to their collections by commissioning EV-converted heritage cars.” Although regular Aston Martins are known for their high performance, battery-powered versions will be even quicker due to the “instant” nature of electric motors, which provides maximum torque (or “pulling power”) from a standstill. Unlike a combustion engine, which needs to reach a certain number of revolutions per minute to achieve motion. Aston Martin and Jaguar are not alone in their exploration of classic conversions. An increasing
www.luxuryreporter.ng
7
