Revitalizing a Classic: Transforming a 1966 Ford Mustang with ReVolt Systems Tesla Power
In an extraordinary narrative of commitment and ingenuity, the Inspire EV team from Arvada, Colorado, undertook a groundbreaking project two years ago. Their mission was to catapult a first-generation Ford Mustang into the 21st century, fusing timeless design with cutting-edge electric technology. The outcome, aptly named “High Voltage,” is not just a visually stunning Mustang but a powerful electric marvel, featuring a Tesla-powered heart.
Discovering Beauty in Neglect: The Quest for a 1965 Coupe
The journey commenced with the discovery of a neglected 1965 coupe in a scrapyard, setting the stage for a project that would push the boundaries of innovation. Overcoming the challenge of incorporating a Tesla LDU and battery packs without altering the car’s original structure required extensive research and development, culminating in a pivotal partnership with reVolt Systems.
Under the Hood: Tesla-Powered Brilliance
The internal combustion engine made way for a remarkable reVolt Systems Tesla drive unit, complemented by a Ford 9-inch differential and a Mark Williams carbon fiber driveshaft. The power-packed reVolt Systems CR-43 motor, boasting over 450kW (600hp) and 1,100+ Nm (812 lb-ft), propels the Mustang from 0 to 60 in an impressive 3 seconds.
Electrifying Performance: The Heart of High Voltage
Fueling this electric powerhouse is a custom-designed battery system comprising 16 Tesla Model S battery packs, providing 85 kWh of total capacity. Strategically placed under the hood and in the trunk, these lithium-ion batteries offer a range of 250 miles. Monitored by an Orion BMS 2 and coupled with an Elcon charger and EV Controls T2C controller, the power delivery is both precise and exhilarating.
Precision Handling: Enhancements for Driving Pleasure
With a five-fold increase in power compared to the original straight-6 engine, enhancements include a Speedway 4-link rear end and Jonny Law Motors Mustang II front end for precise handling. Top-shelf gear, such as superb Racing wheels and Riken Raptor tires, ensures optimal grip, while the lighting system features Oracle headlights and the interior is adorned with TMI Pony seats, Aurora Gauges, and a Retrosound stereo.
Overcoming Challenges: Meticulous Restoration and Electric Conversion
The restoration journey involved painstaking in-house bodywork and paint application using PPG paint, addressing the necessity of fully restoring the Mustang alongside the electric conversion. Inspire EV’s unwavering attitude and hard work were pivotal in overcoming challenges, emphasizing the importance of never accepting failure as an option.
Lessons Learned: An EV Odyssey
Converting classic cars to EVs requires extensive research, and the Inspire EV team acknowledges the invaluable support received from individuals within the EV community. Their goal was to rescue an American classic from oblivion, preserving its original appearance while incorporating the most powerful electric motor available. The result is High Voltage – a vehicle that not only accelerates impressively but also delivers an exhilarating driving experience.
The Road Ahead: High Voltage on Tour
As the team at Inspire EV concludes this remarkable chapter, they invite enthusiasts to witness the power and beauty of their creation firsthand. High Voltage will tour major EV shows in the US this year and the next, standing out as an exceptionally attractive “Tesla” on the road, a true testament to their remarkable achievement.
SPECS
Inspire EV
- Location: Arvada, Colorado
- Year, Make, Model: 1965 Ford Mustang
- Vehicle Name: High Voltage
- Time to Build: 18 months
- Cost to Build: $100,000
Motor & Drivetrain
- Motor Swap Performed by: Inspire EV
- Motor: reVolt Systems CR-43 Motor (Tesla Model S Performance)
- Horsepower in Kilowatts: +450kW/+600hp
- Torque in Newton Meters: 1.100+ Nm/812 lb-ft
- Voltage 400V
- Max RPM: 8,000
- Peak Current: 1,520A
- Max Continuous Current: 1,000A
- Motor/Transmission Mounts: Custom
- Control System and Software: EV Controls T2C
- 0 to 60 time: 3 seconds
- Vehicle Weight: 3,545 pounds
Battery System & Charger
- Pack Design: Custom by Inspire EV
- Cell Type: Lithium-ion
- Module: 16 Tesla Model S battery modules
- Battery Capacity: 85 kWh
- Battery Locations: Four modules under the hood, 12 modules in the trunk
- Highway Range: 250 miles
- City Range: 250-plus miles
- Regenerative Braking: Yes
- Charger kW Charge Rate: 3.3 kW
- Charger Location: Original fuel cap
- DC Fast charging: Upcoming
- BMS: Orion
- Charger: Elcon
Chassis/Suspension
- Installation Shop: Inspire EV
- Chassis: Ford Mustang Unibody (reinforced)
- Rear Suspension Setup: Speedway 4-link
- Control Arms: Speedway Motors
- Shocks: Coilovers
- Other: Mustang II frontend with shock tower delete
Wheels, Tires & Brakes
- Wheels: American Racing 17-inches
- Tires: Rikken Raptor 225/45R17
- Brakes: Speedway Motors Disc
- Gears/Ratio: 4.10 Ford 9-inch
- Axles: 31-spline
- Driveshaft: Carbon Fiber by Mark Williams
Body/Paint
- Paint Shop: Inspire EV
- Color: PPG Paints Ford Race Red
- Grille: NPD
- Bumpers: NPD
- Headlights: Oracle
- Taillights: Custom LED
- Glass: NPD
- Moldings: Steele Rubber Products
