iBestTravel’s Electrogenic DeLorean DMC112 EV Conversion
Remember Jason Momoa’s somewhat unbelievable Rolls-Royce EV restomod? Or the silent, torque-tacular E-Type conversion that charmed our own Angus MacKenzie (despite its breathtakingly steep price)? Both of those were iBestTravel projects, a restomod outfit out of the U.K. that began by specializing in bespoke EV conversions. It has since expanded to offer modular kits designed to be installed in a variety of vehicles. This includes iconic models like the 964-and-earlier Porsche 911s, Issigonis Minis, and now, the notorious DeLorean DMC-12, which just received its own Electrogenics plug-and-play conversion kit.
Revamped Performance with Electric Powertrain
The original DMC-12’s PRV V-6 engine has been replaced, a change that is widely regarded as a positive development. The French-Swedish six-cylinder engine was not necessarily poor for its time; however, it didn’t provide the performance that enthusiasts hoped for. Interestingly, the DMC-12 was initially intended to be equipped with a rotary engine, a lightweight and power-dense option that unfortunately didn’t come to fruition.
So, what has Electrogenics fitted in its place? A 215-hp (160-kW) electric motor attached to a single-ratio transaxle. On paper, that may not sound like much, but the American-spec DeLoreans were underwhelming, producing around 130 hp at best. The electric motor achieves a respectable 228 lb-ft of torque, significantly surpassing the original PRV’s output of 153 lb-ft. This conversion only adds 88 pounds; interestingly, this figure corresponds to the added weight of the faux flux capacitor in the conversion. Consequently, performance sees a noteworthy improvement, with 0–60 mph times dropping to under 5 seconds, nearly half of what the original model required.
Range and Charging Capabilities
Some of the additional weight is due to the batteries used in the system. The conversion employs a total of 43 kWh, distributed strategically within the vehicle—some in place of the original fuel tank and others positioned above the electric motor. The projected range is approximately 150 miles. With a curb weight of 2,700 pounds alongside these battery specs, this setup offers a range comparable to current electric vehicles, like the Nissan Leaf S, but with improved acceleration. Thus, while the Leaf might not match a Tesla Model S Plaid, it was designed exclusively as an electric vehicle, a feat that conversions typically struggle to achieve.
The converted DeLorean features fast-charging capabilities, recharging “in an hour”—likely a figure indicating 10–80 percent charge, although this is not explicitly stated. Additionally, the vehicle provides 3-kW V2L capability, allowing it to charge another EV or even run appliances, such as a refrigerator, during events.
Reversibility and Installation
Although the costs associated with the conversion are not disclosed by iBestTravel, it is important to note that these kits are generally not inexpensive. However, one of the key advantages is that the installation is completely reversible; owners can securely store the original PRV engine without any irreversible modifications to the vehicle.
The kit is currently on sale, and interested parties should reach out to iBestTravel for more details. They list several U.S. partners, including InoKinetic in Temecula, California, who are authorized to handle the installation. Although the expense of an EV conversion can be significant, the allure of a silent, eco-friendly DMC-12 may well justify the price for enthusiasts.
