The Hemmels all-electric Pagoda: The evolution of an icon
Craftsmanship
July 27, 2023
At Hemmels, our work for a revolutionary new vehicle began in earnest in 2018. Our mission to create a sustainable, everyday-driving classic was born out of the desire to preserve the elegance and beauty of an original while enhancing it with 21st century motoring technology. The result is the all new Mercedes-Benz Electric Pagoda with an exclusive powertrain at the cutting-edge of technology.
“By adding the electric powertrain and restoring these cars to perfection, the Electric Pagoda will allow the discerning client to express their individuality through driving a rare vintage classic with both modern reliability and environmental sustainability.”
Iain Wood, Hemmels Head of Operations
The 280 SL Pagoda is regarded to be master designer, Paul Bracq’s magnum opus from his time at Mercedes-Benz. Combining simplistic stylings with elegant proportions, the car earned its nickname from the unmistakable concave roof designed to keep passengers and drivers safe while cruising in style. Not sacrificing function over form, the 280 SL Pagoda also broke ground as the best performing SL-Class in its day. Today, the Electric Pagoda is following in the footsteps of the original W113 by offering a stunning vehicle built to function.
The Hemmels engineers began the process of building the electric classic with a full 3D body scan using computer aided drawing (CAD). Through performance modelling software and several prototypes, they designed the next generation of powertrains with instant response. This includes an engine powered by lithium-ion technology, which matches the weights and balances of the original product specification exactly, for silent and smooth efficiency. True to the Hemmels ethos, the rest of the car is meticulously restored with absolute precision. Genuine Mercedes-Benz parts honour the original design throughout so that the overall aesthetic of the car is untouched, while finer details such as colours, carpeting and contrasts are left for the new owners to decide.
"The technology encompassed everything that we stand for, with an added emphasis on safety and drivability... This car is not just an icon of the past, but now a true classic of the future."
Derek Lawrence, Hemmels CEO
Hemmels offer an exclusive new car buying experience to anyone looking to create a completely personalised vehicle. From unique colour combinations to the original factory ensemble, every car is fitted with a new leather interior where everything is carefully hand sewn in a choice of matching or complementary stitching. Finer details such as accent colours, name embossing, bespoke seat comfort specifications, and even matching leather luggage can also be explored during the full design consultation.
Under the hood, the internal combustion engine intentionally matches the top speed and horsepower ratings of the original. The car’s range of 160 miles is quick to charge to and it also features a flexi-charge capability, meaning owners can rapid charge to 70% battery in just one hour. All without compromising a smooth, quiet and reliable drive, every single day.
As comfortable on the commute as on a tour of the world’s most breathtaking coasts, the Hemmels Electric Pagoda is capable of a 200 mile range, reaching 60 mph in 9.4 seconds. A completely versatile all-season driver, it also comes with a removable hard top and built-in soft top for those brighter days.
In the Hemmels Electric Pagoda, we can all witness automotive history playing out in real time. It is a car that truly embodies the next stage of classic car renovation, preservation and evolution – built for the needs of modern passengers and drivers.