Reviving a Classic Mustang for the 21st Century

WORDS AND PHOTOS BY JEROME ANDRE

INSPIRE EV’s 65 Mustang is a perfect fusion of classic styling and modern e-power.

"The range is 250 miles—if you don’t test the grip limit full-time, just for kicks!"

TWO years ago, in a remarkable tale of dedication and innovation, the team at Inspire EV, based in Arvada, Colorado, embarked on an ambitious project to bring a first generation Ford Mustang into the modern era. Their mission? To transform a 58-year-old classic car into a stunning, drivable work of art that seamlessly blends timeless styling with a cutting-edge electric drivetrain. The result is “High Voltage,” a Mustang that not only looks better than when it left the factory but also boasts a powerful Tesla-powered heart.

The journey began with discovering a neglected 1965 coupe in a scrapyard. Inspire EV’s crew’s determination to incorporate Tesla LDU and battery packs without modifying the car presented a substantial research and development challenge, which was eventually overcome with the discovery of reVolt Systems. Then, the team wasted no time removing the internal combustion engine to make way for a beautiful reVolt Systems Tesla drive unit. Enhancements continued with installing a Ford 9-inch differential and a Mark Williams carbon fiber driveshaft.