ECC Launches Modular EV Chassis for Classic Vehicle Restorations

Daily Car

09/03/2026

Electric Classic Cars (ECC), a prominent specialist in electric vehicle conversions, has introduced a modular skateboard chassis designed to repower vintage pickups and SUVs. The platform provides a comprehensive, modern electric drivetrain solution for classic body-on-frame vehicles, allowing owners to retain original aesthetics while gaining contemporary performance and technology.

A New Foundation for Vintage Steel

Traditional EV conversions of classic cars often involve compromises, particularly with battery placement that can intrude on passenger or cargo space. Many vintage trucks and SUVs were built using a body-on-frame method, where the vehicle's body is a separate component bolted onto a rigid underlying frame. ECC's solution replaces the entire original frame and powertrain with a self-contained electric "skateboard." This design integrates the motors, battery, and suspension into a single, low-profile platform, preserving the vehicle's original interior and exterior dimensions.

Technical Specifications and Performance

The chassis is engineered for adaptability, accommodating wheelbases from 88 to 130 inches. This makes it compatible with a wide range of classic models, such as the first-generation Land Rover Defender, Ford Bronco, and International Scout. Power is delivered by a dual-motor system sourced from Tesla, providing all-wheel drive and a combined output of up to 530 horsepower. This represents a significant power increase over the original engines in most of these classic vehicles.

The system includes modern independent front and rear suspension, with the rear axle utilizing a Tesla Model 3 subframe. Integrated electronics provide features like traction control, torque vectoring, and hill descent control. Two battery options are available: a 56-kilowatt-hour pack for shorter wheelbases (88-108 inches) and an 82-kWh pack for longer ones (108-130 inches). Both configurations support DC fast charging.

Market Application and Availability

This modular platform is intended to transform classic trucks into high-performance vehicles suited for on-road driving and light off-road use. The substantial horsepower enables acceleration from zero to 60 miles per hour in under four seconds. While specific pricing has not been released, ECC has confirmed it will begin shipping the chassis to restomod shops globally, including in the United States. This move positions ECC to supply the growing market for professionally electrified classic vehicles, building on its established reputation for converting models from the Volkswagen Beetle to the Porsche 911.

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