BARRETT-JACKSON – Legacy EV, a leader in Electric Vehicle (EV) aftermarket applications and education programs, will auction “dEVille”, a 1966 Cadillac Convertible Electro-Mod (Lot #1036.1) at No Reserve on Friday, January 26, 2024, during the 2024 Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction at WestWorld of Scottsdale. A timeless classic with modern EV drivetrain, “dEVille” was built for SEMA 2021 and the award-winning car took over eight months to complete.
“This was as much a passion project for our team, as it was a showcase of how to transform a gas-guzzling American classic into an electric vehicle,” said Rob Ward, CEO and founder of Legacy EV. “We were particularly careful to maintain the Cadillac’s original design as we navigated the complexities of fitting a modern day powerplant made of motors and lithium batteries into a vehicle that’s almost 60 years old. What our team accomplished with ‘dEVille’ is nothing short of incredible and I’m honored to have it cross the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale auction block.”
“dEVille” (Lot #1036.1) was built using an original 1966 Cadillac De Ville convertible that was powered by a V8 gas engine. Today, the classic Cadillac’s powerplant is a 394-horsepower (290.5 kW) electric motor with 1,000 ft/lbs of torque mated to a one-speed automatic transmission, which cranks out more horsepower than the original engine. A NMC Lithium Ion battery pack (55kwh) powers three inline Hyper9 Motors controlled by SmartView Motor software.
“Electro-Mods are the future of car collecting and vehicle customization,” said Mavrick Knoles, president and co-founder of Legacy EV. “Retro-fitting classic gas-powered vehicles with electric motors and batteries creates a sustainable modern vehicle and is the next step in preserving vintage vehicles. I think in 20 years we’ll look back and recognize ‘dEVille’ as a tribute to the past, while protecting our future.”
Finished in Bright White with white convertible top, “dEVille” rides on 20-inch EVOD Wheels and retains its stock chassis, control arms and spindle, and includes upgraded front disc brakes. The interior is all red and includes custom door panels, with updated digital stereo system, custom Dakota Digital gauges, and steering wheel by PearlCraft. It has a 150-mile range with 500-amp hours.