UK-based classic racing car team Alan Mann Racing (AMR) has embraced electrification technology with its restored classic 1965 Ford Mustang, which has been re-engineered with a new electric powertrain, regenerative braking and modern chassis – forming the new ePower Mustang.
The base car, any 1960s Mustang, can be sourced by AMR or provided by the owner and is carefully stripped and the powertrain removed. The car body and remaining mechanicals are either replaced or refurbished to a very high standard, and the whole vehicle is then rebuilt around a compact electric motor driving the rear wheels, and a modern, racing-standard chassis.
The chassis, developed by experienced Formula 1 designers, is upgraded with independent double wishbone suspension and billet aluminum uprights replacing the original’s front struts and rear leaf springs. The 1960s braking system is also replaced with a powerful regenerative system featuring ventilated front and rear discs, with six-piston calipers in front and four-piston calipers behind.
The design and feel of the original 1960s interior are retained as much as possible, although every element is either restored, replaced or substituted, with the emphasis on a period-correct aesthetic. The only modern additions being more comfortable and supportive racing seats, climate control, Bluetooth connectivity and a carefully integrated video display.
“We have been watching the incredible growth of so-called resto-mods with interest,” said Henry Mann, son of founder Alan Mann, and director of AMR. “We’ve seen cherished cars that owners want to improve, and we’ve seen those that owners want to futureproof, and we believe our new 1960s Mustang Coupe meets both needs.
“This particular model played a large part in the history of our company and is close to our hearts,” he added. “It was the first racing Mustang to achieve international success for Ford, and, back in 1964, it was all prepared in-house by my father’s operation.”
Each Mustang (depending on the condition of the donor car) takes around 1,000 hours to complete. Customers outside the UK will receive their cars from AMR’s new business partner, Mann ePower Cars, based near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with the quality, engineering and mechanical specification mirroring the standards set in Surrey – with many key components shipped from AMR in the UK.
The ePower Mustang becomes the first in a series of exciting Alan Mann Legacy Edition cars to be produced, with others to follow soon.
