Lunaz converts 1961 Bentley S2 Continental to run on batteries

Lunaz is a British company that makes electric versions of much-loved classic cars, often with performance that can rival modern EVs.

The company’s latest project was the 1961 Bentley S2 Continental whose original 6.2-liter V-8 had been swapped for a 400 hp electric powertrain.

The Continental was a high-performance version of Bentley’s S2 range built between 1959 and 1962. Fewer than 400 were built, with some featuring bespoke bodies made by coachbuilders.

This particular Continental S2 features the coupe body of former British coachbuilder James Young. According to Lunaz, only four units were made in this style. Apparently the customer originally ordered a sedan but at the last minute requested a coupe. The customer kept the car until 1967 after which it changed hands several times, including living briefly in Germany and Japan before returning to England.

1961 Bentley S2 Continental EV convertible by Lunaz

1961 Bentley S2 Continental EV convertible by Lunaz

1961 Bentley S2 Continental EV convertible by Lunaz

When Lunaz chooses a model to change, there is a painstaking process whereby the powertrain is designed to fit perfectly so that ride and handling are not compromised. For example, each corner of the car is weighed to find the distribution of the original weight to grams. Lunaz uses this information to decide on chassis, powertrain packaging, and suspension setups.

The customer who ordered the conversion wanted handling that met modern standards, so Lunaz fitted a fully adjustable coil-over suspension that the driver could control from the cab. The brakes, which work with an energy recovery system, are also a modern item, featuring six-piston calipers at the front and four-piston calipers at the rear.

Lunaz also seeks to include as many sustainable materials as possible in its conversions. For example, all original components are updated where possible, and new materials, such as carpet, leather and wood trim, are all shipped from sustainable sources.

Lunaz, who counts David Beckham as an investor, did his conversion work at a facility in Silverstone, England. The company has also revamped the 1961 Bentley S3 Continental Flying Spur, as well as classic models from Aston Martin, Jaguar, Land Rover, and Rolls-Royce.