Restomod Range Rover V8 brings modern tech and optional sports suspension but skips new emissions tax.
New emissions regulations are being rolled out in countries around the globe, some requiring surcharges for cars with big engines. However, as in the UK with its extended Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) tax, cars of a certain vintage can get around the issues, despite having V8s or larger.
Range Rover specialist Kingsley Cars in the UK has created the ‘ULEZ Reborn’ as a sympathetically upgraded take on the original luxury SUV.
Revealed on the same day the Ultra Low Emission Zone has been substantially expanded, the resto-mod takes advantage of the fact that classic cars more than 40 years old are exempt from the over-$20 daily charge for non-compliant vehicles, and as such is available with a choice of either 4.0-litre and 4.6-litre naturally aspirated V8s.
The uprated engines, producing 162kW and 199kW respectively. They arrive alongside a raft of dynamic upgrades, interior refinements and added kit over standard – not to mention a comprehensive restoration process that completely renews the car, structurally and mechanically – a package costing from £125,000 (AUD$230,000).
It is described by Kingsley as a “driver-focused, technology-oriented facelift” which opens up classic Range Rover ownership to enthusiasts who live in London’s ULEZ, or indeed a similar clean air zone elsewhere.
Each car is stripped to bare metal to allow for any necessary structural repairs to be carried out and a rubberised protective coating applied, before being built back up according to the owner’s desired specification.
In addition to a raft of modern-spec enhancements including a standard-fit ZF automatic gearbox, touchscreen infotainment, heated seats, electric windows and upgraded sound deadening, Kingsley can fit parking sensors, a reversing camera, LED headlights and headrest-mounted iPads for the rear passengers.
The company’s own ‘Fast Road’ suspension upgrade with uprated anti-roll bars is also available, as are uprated brakes and lightweight forged aluminium wheels.
Kingsley has started taking orders for cars to be delivered in around six to eight months.
Felix Page