The Electrifying Reinvention of the Classic Mercedes SL Pagoda: A Game Changer
The automotive world stands on the precipice of a monumental shift, where the allure of electric power entices even the most devout classic car enthusiasts. At the heart of this revolution is the reinvented 1968 W113 Mercedes-Benz SL Pagoda, a masterpiece that combines the timeless elegance of a classic with the cutting-edge technology of today’s electric vehicles. This isn't just any retrofit; it's a bold statement on the future of classic car restoration.
A Classic Reborn
The story of the electrified Pagoda begins with Everrati, a company dedicated to the art of transforming classic cars into modern electric marvels without compromising their soul. The Pagoda project is a testament to this philosophy, starting life as a 230 manual—a respectable but not particularly sought-after model. It was a vehicle in distress, with a previous restoration attempt gone wrong and nearly every panel begging for replacement. Yet, rather than restoring it to its original state, the owner decided on a path less traveled: electrification.
The Art of Electrification
Electrification of a classic car is no simple feat. Everrati takes this challenge head-on with a meticulous process that strips the Pagoda down to bare metal. Every hint of rust is eradicated, replaced with fresh steel before a lavish coat of Le Mans Blu paint is applied, breathing new life into this icon. The transformation extends beyond the surface, as the original engine makes way for a state-of-the-art electric powertrain. This includes a potent 300-hp Helix motor, reminiscent of the one powering the Lotus Evija, paired with a choice of two battery packs promising ranges of up to 200 miles on a single charge.
Redefining the Driving Experience
The electrified Pagoda offers a driving experience that is both familiar and novel. The gear selector, masquerading as a manual, now shifts between drive and reverse with a simple fore-and-aft motion. The traditional big brake pedal provides most of the stopping power, complemented by adjustable regenerative braking. Despite weighing approximately 220 pounds more than its gasoline counterpart, upgraded springs and dampers ensure the Pagoda retains its period-correct stature and drives with grace.
A Closer Look Inside
Inside, the Pagoda's charm is undeniable. A total retrim using period-correct Cognac MB-Tex fabric, along with the option for custom leatherwork from Everrati’s partner, Bridge of Weir, ensures the interior’s aesthetics match its glorious past. Yet, it's the subtle incorporations of modern technology that captivate; a central digital display springs to life upon startup, while dials have been thoughtfully recalibrated to reflect the electric heartbeat of the Pagoda.
Who Dares to Electrify the Past?
The question of who would commission such a transformation—and at what cost—inevitably arises. With a staggering price tag of £330,000 ($414,000), the electrified Pagoda isn't for the faint-hearted. It appeals to a unique clientele: connoisseurs who are as passionate about sustainable driving as they are about classic cars. These individuals see beyond the immediate, visualizing a future where electric power and classic design coalesce into something truly exceptional.
Conclusion
In a world increasingly conscious of sustainability, the electrified Pagoda by Everrati stands as a beacon of innovation, blending the past with the future. It challenges preconceived notions about classic cars and electric vehicles, proving that with vision and craftsmanship, the two can coexist beautifully. As the automotive landscape evolves, projects like the electrified Pagoda offer a glimpse into a future where reverence for automotive history and the pursuit of modernity ride side by side.