The All-Electric Porsche 911 RSR: A Masterclass in Preserving Automotive Iconography for a New Era
For decades, the Porsche 911, particularly its revered air-cooled iterations, has occupied a hallowed space in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts. Its distinctive silhouette, potent flat-six engines, and inimitable rear-engine handling dynamics have cemented its status as an automotive legend. The prospect of replacing this mechanical soul with batteries and electric motors might seem, to some, like a cardinal sin. However, the burgeoning field of classic car electrification, spearheaded by innovators like Everrati Automotive Limited, is proving that a harmonious marriage between heritage and cutting-edge technology is not only possible but can elevate these iconic machines to new heights. Having spent considerable time immersed in the world of high-performance EVs and classic car restoration, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of thoughtful electrification, and Everrati’s latest creation, a Porsche 911 RSR electric conversion, stands as a compelling testament to this evolution.
The question of whether electrifying cherished automotive icons is sacrilege is one that echoes through enthusiast circles. It’s a valid concern, given the generational commitment required to forge an automotive legend. The air-cooled Porsche 911, with its unparalleled blend of form, function, and auditory allure, is particularly susceptible to such scrutiny. Yet, as technology rapidly advances, the narrative is shifting. We are entering an era where the very essence of what makes a sports car exhilarating can be faithfully replicated, and in some instances, even enhanced, by electric powertrains. This isn’t merely about repowering old cars; it’s about reimagining their potential and ensuring their relevance for generations to come. The Porsche 911 RSR electric conversion by Everrati offers a profound insight into this paradigm shift.
My recent encounter with Everrati’s meticulously crafted 964-generation 911 RSR homage, aptly named the “Evergreen Commission,” provided an unparalleled opportunity to assess the viability and sheer brilliance of their approach. The 964, a breed of air-cooled 911 cherished for its refined design and robust engineering, serves as the perfect canvas for such a radical transformation. When coupled with the RSR’s potent motorsport pedigree, the stakes are exceptionally high. The ability of Everrati to imbue this electric marvel with the spirit and dynamism of its internal combustion ancestors is the ultimate test.
Everrati: More Than Just an EV Conversion Shop
Everrati Automotive Limited, though a relatively young company, has rapidly ascended the ranks of automotive artisans. Their portfolio boasts a curated selection of revered classics, including Series Land Rovers, Mercedes-Benz SL Pagodas, and the legendary Ford GT40, alongside various iterations of the Porsche 911. These are not mass-produced replicas; they are bespoke commissions meticulously crafted for a discerning clientele. The engineering talent behind Everrati is equally impressive, drawing seasoned professionals from the high-performance EV sector, including luminaries from companies like Rimac.
Crucially, Everrati positions itself not merely as a conversion workshop but as an EV technology company. A significant facet of their business involves designing powertrains for other niche electric vehicle manufacturers. This deep-seated expertise in EV architecture allows them to approach classic car electrification with a level of sophistication that goes far beyond simply swapping an engine for a battery.
“There’s a wide-open space at the moment in EV,” Justin Lunny, Founder and CEO of Everrati, shared during a recent conversation. “If you’re going to buy a Rimac Nevera or Pininfarina Battista, you’re talking $2.5 to $3 million. The next price down is probably the high-end of the Porsche Taycan, realistically, and there’s nothing really in between. So there’s a big space there for companies to create true drivers’ EVs, and those are the kinds of companies that we work with.”
Everrati’s own creations are precisely this: exhilarating to drive, and engineered to remain as true as possible to the spirit of their original counterparts. The 964 RSR electric conversion I sampled, the Evergreen Commission, was commissioned by Steve Rimmer, CEO of Dirtfish Rally School in Washington. This project exemplifies how electrification can foster a broader appreciation for automotive heritage.
“Most of our clients are not necessarily traditional car people,” Lunny explained. “Instead, they have a deep love of design and technology, want something beautiful to drive around in, and don’t want to deal with the specialized upkeep or contributing to tailpipe emissions.” This insight is crucial: electrification, when executed thoughtfully, can serve as a powerful tool for preservation, extending the lifespan of these automotive treasures and cultivating a new generation of enthusiasts. The luxury EV conversions offered by Everrati are redefining classic car ownership.
The Art of the Build: Precision Engineering Meets Heritage Design
The culmination of Everrati’s expertise is undeniably beautiful. Each 964 build commences with a carefully selected donor car, typically a narrow-body Carrera model. The presence of a Tiptronic automatic transmission, often eschewed by collectors favoring manual gearboxes, presents an ideal opportunity for repurposing. The initial bodywork is entrusted to the Aria Group in Irvine, California, a firm renowned for its work with prominent names in the 911 reimagination scene, including Singer. Panels are replaced with lightweight carbon fiber alternatives, the body is meticulously realigned and painted to perfection, and then dispatched to Everrati for the intricate assembly process.
The heart of this electric beast comprises 64 kWh CALB battery units. Approximately 70% of this energy storage is artfully integrated behind the passenger compartment, with the remaining 30% nestled within the former confines of the fuel tank. Everrati estimates a respectable range of around 200 miles for the 964, a commendable figure for a performance-oriented electric sports car conversion. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a refurbished Tesla electric motor, channeled through a limited-slip differential. The chassis benefits from aftermarket wheels and tires, along with Tractive adaptive dampers, all meticulously corner-balanced to optimize handling characteristics.
The end result is a masterpiece, a restomod Porsche 911 that seamlessly blends RSR aesthetics with modern engineering. Pricing for these bespoke creations begins around $500,000, with Everrati offering an extensive array of customization options for interior materials and finishes. The Evergreen Commission was a vision of opulence, adorned with tan leather and deep grey Alcantara, exuding an air of impeccable craftsmanship.
Everrati’s integration of modern switchgear and touchscreens is remarkably subtle, creating a harmonious dialogue between classic Porsche aesthetics and contemporary controls for drive modes and system monitoring. Thoughtful touches abound, such as the discreet placement of the charging ports: a Level 2 (max. 6.6 kW) port resides where the fuel filler once was, while a Level 3 (max. 70 kW) port is concealed beneath the hood. For the true Porsche aficionado, the relocation of the coolant reservoir cap to the position of the former oil tank cap is a delightful nod to the marque’s heritage. Exploring EV Porsche upgrades like these showcases a deep understanding of both automotive history and future technology.
Behind the Wheel: Experiencing the Electrified 911 RSR
The advancements in electrification have reached a point where virtually any chassis can be seamlessly and intelligently electrified, provided the engineering prowess is present. I recently experienced this firsthand with Icon’s EV Bronco, a testament to this technological leap. However, capturing the soul and driving essence of an original iteration, especially one as iconic as the 911, demands a far greater level of dedication and engineering finesse.
I am thrilled to report that Everrati’s creation drives with an almost uncanny fidelity to the original, offering a driving experience that is as close to internal combustion as one can achieve without it. The authenticity revealed itself almost immediately during a spirited drive along California’s Pacific Coast Highway. The characteristic weight bias over the rear axle was palpable, yet the chassis remained composed over the road’s imperfections. The front end felt light yet planted, the steering possessed an exquisite weighting and communication, and the turn-in response was textbook rear-engine Porsche. Everrati’s commitment to preserving this crucial element is evident in their decision to retain the original 964 hydraulic steering rack, augmented by an electric pump for seamless operation.
One might naturally assume that incorporating an electric powertrain would significantly increase curb weight. However, this is demonstrably not the case. Lunny confirmed that this electrified RSR tips the scales at a mere 3,220 pounds. For those not intimately familiar with later air-cooled 911 specifications, this is approximately 40 pounds lighter than the 964 Turbo model. This remarkable feat of engineering underscores Everrati’s dedication to maintaining the delicate balance of the original car.
A firm press of the throttle pedal leaves no doubt that electrons are propelling you forward. The Everrati 911 delivers brisk acceleration, boasting around 500 horsepower on tap. This surge of power is delivered with a character-rich progression; the engineers have clearly invested considerable effort in perfecting the throttle mapping and motor tuning. The power delivery is beautifully progressive, eschewing the abruptness of some electric performance vehicles. In this regard, it could even be considered an improvement over an original 964 Turbo, as there’s no turbo lag to contend with. I anticipate a flurry of passionate discourse from Porsche purists regarding this assertion.
As a rear-wheel-drive machine, the deployment of regenerative braking was a critical consideration for Everrati. Insufficient regeneration would lead to an undesirable coasting sensation when lifting off the throttle, detracting from the sports car driving experience. Conversely, excessive regeneration could negatively impact the car’s dynamic balance, as the rear wheels are not designed to bear the brunt of deceleration. Everrati has achieved a masterful equilibrium: lifting off the throttle mimics the sensation of coasting in fourth gear at 40 mph – enough to provide some character without compromising the car’s inherent balance.
Exiting corners onto open stretches of road, the rear end hunkers down with confidence, propelling you forward with exhilarating, drama-free thrust. Lunny reassuringly confirmed that, with traction control dialed back, the car is more than willing to embrace an oversteer-inducing attitude – a fitting characteristic for a machine with such motorsport heritage, especially given Everrati’s UK facility is situated on a former military airbase. The prospect of performance EV conversions like this is immensely exciting.
Electrification as the Ultimate Preservation
In conclusion, Everrati has achieved something truly extraordinary with this 964 Porsche 911 RSR commission. The combination of its breathtaking, iconic aesthetics, luxurious interior, and, most importantly, its exceptional driving dynamics, creates an experience that transcends mere nostalgia. While inevitably some enthusiasts will embrace it and others will remain skeptical, the trajectory of automotive evolution suggests that open-mindedness is key. The debate over engine types, gearbox configurations, and even the very definition of a “real” Porsche will undoubtedly continue.
“Of course, you get the person that might not respect what you’re doing,” Lunny acknowledged. “But once people drive it, they actually really enjoy it, and I think it’s one of those things where if people are open-minded enough, they realize that we’re not trying to ruin these things, but rather preserve them for a future generation.” This philosophy extends beyond Everrati’s bespoke creations. It represents a broader movement to ensure the enduring appeal of enthusiast vehicles, whether they are low-production marvels or mass-produced icons.
The technology now exists to imbue EVs with character, meticulously replicate the handling dynamics of legacy models, and create genuinely engaging driving machines that can capture a wider audience. The success of Everrati’s Porsche 911 RSR electric conversion is a potent indicator of this future. As manufacturers like Porsche itself explore cutting-edge electric powertrains for future models, such as the anticipated 983-generation Porsche Boxster and Cayman, the future of sports car ownership looks incredibly promising.
If you’re captivated by the idea of experiencing automotive history through a modern, sustainable lens, or if you’re seeking the pinnacle of classic car EV conversion services, we invite you to explore the possibilities. Discover how companies like Everrati are not just building cars, but crafting legacies for the road ahead. Contact an EV conversion specialist today to learn more about bringing your dream electrified classic to life.
