Denmark's Kalmar is quickly establishing its reputation in the world of 911 restomods, particularly through its extreme attention to detail. This quality is fully embodied in their latest creation, an electric conversion of the 911 that utilizes a powertrain from the Tesla Model S.
Rather than merely swapping the Tesla's powertrain into the 911, Kalmar has delved deeper into how to enhance the car's green credentials while also boosting performance. The result is the 7-97 E-Volt.
The conversion process began with finding a donor 911 that was out of commission, specifically a 964-generation model missing its engine. The company then restored the vehicle, retaining original parts wherever possible, which included melting down and recasting aluminum, as well as a similar process for the glass.
What is perhaps most impressive is Kalmar's decision to create a new lightweight body using flax-based composite material. This material was also employed in the interior to further reduce weight. Kalmar claims that the 7-97 E-Volt weighs just over 3,000 pounds, comparable to the weight of the 964-generation Turbo, which shares similar dimensions with the 7-97 E-Volt.
Both the new body and Kalmar's glue-in glass (which helps to reduce drag by eliminating gaps) have also improved the vehicle's aerodynamic efficiency while maintaining a high level of downforce. According to the company, downforce is increased by 30% at the front and 20% at the rear compared to the donor 911, and an available ducktail spoiler can enhance rear downforce by another 60%.
However, in any EV conversion, the powertrain is the star. A single electric motor mounted at the rear axle delivers a peak of 450 hp and draws energy from a 63-kwh battery split between the front and rear for optimized weight distribution. Performance claims include a 0-62 mph time of less than four seconds and a range of up to 180 miles. A drive mode selector allows the driver to choose between Eco and Sport modes.
Modern features include electric power steering, automatic climate control, LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and an infotainment system with Apple CarPlay. An electric vacuum pump has been added to power the power steering, air-conditioning, and brake booster systems. Buyers of any future 7-97 E-Volts can choose between steel brake rotors or a lighter carbon-ceramic set.
The 7-97 E-Volt conversion is priced from 450,000 euros (approximately $500,000). Kalmar stated that the modifications have been made in such a way that the car can be reverted back to gas power should a future owner desire.
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