EV conversion specialist Lunaz Design has unveiled what it says is the rarest classic car ever to be transformed into a fully electric vehicle, a 1961 Bentley S2 Continental, one of only four models ever built.
Lunaz Design is one of three companies underneath parent company Lunaz Group, and focuses on reviving, reengineering, and converting classic vehicles to electric.
Utilising the proprietary modular electric powertrain designed by sister company Lunaz Powertrain, Lunaz Design has produced electric upcycled versions of some of the most prestigious vintage cars ever to grace our roads, including electric versions from Range Rover, Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, and Jaguar.
Originally, the Continental was powered by a 6.2-litre V8 petrol engine, but has now been completely restored and equipped with an electric powertrain able to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 6.9 seconds.
Converted on request for an unnamed client, the newly-fully electric Bentley S2 Continental now boasts a 400bhp powertrain producing 530 lb-fit of torque.
Even the interior has been modified, and now uses a number of sustainable materials including seat leather made from hides tanned using naturally fallen olive leaves, while the carpet in the front and rear cabins and boot is made from 100% regenerated nylon fibre and incorporates a backing made from 100% recycled plastic bottles.
All wood veneers used throughout the interior of the car are from sustainable sources and certified by the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC).
“This magnificent Bentley S2 Continental was already an exceptional motor car, as one of just a few examples of its type that remain in the world,” said David Lorenz, founder of Lunaz.
“In its new guise, it’s the rarest vehicle ever to be converted to fully electric propulsion, and the most exclusive project we’ve ever undertaken at Lunaz Design: it’s literally one of a kind.
“This car is also a further demonstration of our proven upcycling process and technologies, developed entirely in-house at our Silverstone facility, which are fast becoming the de facto gold standard for electrification projects involving the world’s most prestigious marques.”
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.