Kalmar's New Porsche 911 EV Restomod Comes With Tesla Power

An Electric Porsche: Bold Move or a Step Too Far?

The restomod production trend has brought classic Porsche 911s back into the limelight, with companies like Singer and Gunther Werks making their mark. Kalmar Automotive’s latest attempt with the 7-97 E-Volt pushes the boundaries even further by introducing an electric motor to the mix. While some enthusiasts may find this bold and forward-thinking, others might question whether an EV conversion truly honors the legacy of the 964 model it’s based on.

Tesla Powertrain in a Porsche

Kalmar’s choice to swap out the Porsche’s iconic flat-six engine for a Tesla Model S powertrain might not sit well with everyone. The 63 kWh battery pack and electric motor push out 450 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque, making for impressive acceleration—0 to 62 mph in under four seconds. But for a car known for its throaty, high-revving engine, is this silent EV really a worthy successor? Some purists may wonder if the soul of the 911 is being sacrificed for the sake of innovation.

A “Sustainable” Build

Kalmar has touted the 7-97 E-Volt’s sustainability, pointing to its flax fiber body panels as a greener alternative to carbon fiber. While this material does reduce CO2 emissions during production, one can’t help but question how much of a difference this really makes in the grand scheme of things. The 7-97 E-Volt still carries a price tag of €450,000 ($500,000)—a steep cost for a car that may leave some wondering whether these eco-friendly materials are more of a marketing ploy than a game-changer.

Modern Comforts, Classic Aesthetics

From the outside, the 7-97 E-Volt tries to remain faithful to its Porsche roots. Subtle badging, Fuchs-style wheels, and a sleek exterior hide its electric heart. However, once inside, the modernized features—Apple CarPlay, rain-sensing wipers, and redesigned gauges—introduce a modernized and more comfortable experience. 

Handling and Performance

Kalmar has gone to great lengths to ensure the 7-97 E-Volt handles like a proper Porsche. The electric motor’s placement on the rear axle and the battery over the front help balance the car, and there’s an adaptive suspension with options for carbon ceramic brakes. But even with these features, some drivers might remain skeptical. Without the signature symphony of Porsche's flat-six motor and the heavenly experience of rowing a Porsche transmission, will the driving experience feel as engaging or exciting?

A Reversible Journey

For those who may waver between the world of combustion and electric power, Kalmar Automotive designed the 7-97 E-Volt with reversibility in mind. Should an owner desire a return to a combustion engine, the modifications can be undone without significant difficulty, ensuring flexibility for the future. As Jan Kalmar, the founder, explained, “The idea of creating an EV version came from our customers. But for us, it had to be more than just dropping an EV motor in a 911.” The company's restomod creation is about more than just its powertrain.

A Price for Innovation

Creating a sustainable, high-performance restomod doesn't come cheap. Starting at €450,000 (around $500,000), the Kalmar 7-97 E-Volt is a luxury many will admire from afar. However, for those who prioritize both speed and sustainability, this innovative project proves that high performance and eco-consciousness can go hand-in-hand.

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