1.21 gigawatts! DeLorean sports car goes electric

by Steven Mostyn - Oct 19 2011, 12:13

A matter of weeks after 1985 sci-fi blockbuster ‘Back to the Future’ was re-released at movie theaters, the iconic DeLorean sports car it helped make famous is also on the comeback trail.

However, this time the DeLorean looks set to arrive with a modern twist. But sadly that doesn’t mean it will include a garbage-powered Mr. Fusion or the ability to transport occupants through time.

Cheap quips aside, the Texas-based DeLorean Motor Company has joined forces with eco-friendly startup Epic EV to create a custom electric version of the stainless steel beast that once lit up the silver screen.

Following last weekend’s unveiling of a prototype DeLorean EV at the International DeLorean Owners event in Houston, Kevin McCauley of Jalopnik reports that the final version will shift into production during 2013.

Although there’s not much known about the all-electric DeLorean at this point, the vehicle’s specs and performance are likely to include a 0-60 mph time of just 4.9 seconds, a top speed of 125mph, and a single-charge range of 70 miles.

It’s also expected to come complete with an electric motor capable of pushing some 260 bhp from its (1.21 gigawatt?!) lithium ion phosphate battery, which has been built by the appropriately named Flux Power.

Other bits and pieces likely to be packed into the reborn DeLorean include the famous gull wing doors, an integrated dock for the iPhone (keepin’ it real), and a hinged grill that hides the vehicle’s charging point.

According to DeLorean, its electric sports car will come attached to a price tag somewhere in the vicinity of $90,000 USD. The existing petrol-powered custom DeLorean, which shifts less than 10 units a year, sells for $57,000 USD.

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