Electrification of classic cars is one of the most controversial topics in the automotive world right now, with some arguing that it’s a great way to keep older models on the road and others angry that people are ditching classic petrol powertrains for electric ones. UK-based Arcade Cars is walking the fine line between those factions with the Sojourn, a restored Mercedes Benz GE 230 with both modern electric and gas engine options.
Arcade starts with one Classic G-Class in the GE 230 (also known as the 230 GE), which originally came with a 2.3-liter inline-four. The company retained that option for the most basic configuration, where it made 125 horsepower and 141 pound-feet of torque. An upgraded 2.8-liter gasoline engine was available with 149 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque.
Where things get interesting with Sojourn is Arcade’s electrification plan off-road vehicles. The company is partnering with Everrati, a company known for supplying and electrifying classic car like Porsche 911, Land Rover Defenderand (gasp) Super Performance GT40. We don’t know the specs of the electric Sojourn project yet, but it’s sure to upset some people.
Whatever is driving it, the revival G-Wagon The interior is much more luxurious than the original. model comfortable accommodations. Arcade offers Alcantara and a variety of premium leathers, and buyers can customize almost every other aspect of the cabin, including the steering wheel. The company also installed modern electronics, such as an Apple CarPlay-enabled touchscreen and multiple speakers and woofer option.
None of this luxury comes cheap—Arcade is setting the starting price at $130,000. Of course, that won’t be much more than what other cars will cost at the company’s chosen launch location, Pebble Beach CompetitionDeliveries will begin later this year, but Arcade has a few gas-powered models for sale on its website if you want to try one out.
