Beachman, known for its stylish vintage-inspired electric motorcycles, is now bringing classic cars and motorcycles back to life with electric power through its new Special Vehicles Division.
- Custom electric conversions preserve manual transmissions
- Specialty batteries crafted for sleek vintage frames
- Conversions start at CAD 10,000 for motorcycles, CAD 35,000 for cars
What happened
Beachman, a Toronto-based company famed for its vintage-style electric café racers, recently expanded its operations by launching the Special Vehicles Division (SVD). This new branch is dedicated to converting classic cars and motorcycles into electric vehicles while maintaining their unique character and design. Their recent project involved a 1974 Honda CB500 motorcycle that was transformed after suffering mechanical failure. The team restored the frame, used advanced 3D scanning to design a custom battery pack, and successfully secured road certification in Ontario.
Since the launch of SVD, Beachman has worked on various vehicles from the 1970s and earlier, including a Kawasaki KZ200, KZ400 motorcycles, and classic cars like the Volkswagen Thing, Meyers Manx dune buggy, a 1958 Chevy Apache truck, and a 1974 Alfa Romeo Spyder convertible. The division specializes in pre-1990 vehicles with manual transmissions and no OBD2 systems. They aim to rejuvenate vehicles that are out of commission rather than modifying those that are already operational.
Why it feels good
The approach by Beachman’s Special Vehicles Division offers enthusiasts an opportunity to enjoy classic cars and motorcycles with the benefits of modern electric technology. By fitting purpose-built or popular EV components such as Nissan Leaf or Tesla powertrains, the conversions retain the original manual transmission experience while significantly improving reliability and reducing environmental impact. This blend of old-school charm and new-age innovation is appealing for those who love their vintage vehicles but want to drive clean and efficient electric motorbikes and cars.
Additionally, these electric conversions pass stringent safety inspections and meet insurance certification requirements, providing peace of mind to owners. The bespoke battery packs often come with impressive performance specs, offering city-friendly power and freeway-capable range. For instance, converted motorcycles like the KZ200 can spot speeds up to 75 mph and around 60 miles of range, while the larger KZ400 boasts ranges over 100 miles. This reinvention injects new life into prized classic vehicles, making them both sustainable and road-ready.
What to enjoy or watch next
For owners of vintage vehicles looking to electrify their rides, Beachman’s Special Vehicles Division offers an attractive path forward with conversions starting at approximately CAD 35,000 (US$25,000) for cars and CAD 10,000 (US$7,120) for motorcycles. Interested customers can reach out through Beachman’s website to inquire about custom conversions and even schedule consultations with their head engineer to discuss specific needs and preferences, ensuring a tailored conversion experience.
As electric vehicle technology continues to expand into niche markets, Beachman’s work stands out as an exciting example of preserving automotive heritage while embracing sustainability. Keep an eye on their upcoming projects, which may soon include more unique classic cars and motorcycles brought into the electric future, blending timeless style with modern convenience and eco-friendly performance.