ICON 4×4 1949 Mercury EV Derelict Coup

When we think of car restoration here at Coolector HQ, ICON 4×4 are definitely one of the first workshops that spring to mind and it’s not too difficult to fathom why when you see builds like this 1949 Mercury EV Derelict Coup emerging from their stable. Gloriously crafted, this impeccable build from ICON 4×4 really has captured our imagination and would undoubtedly be the coolest vehicle on any road.

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The primary purpose behind the ICON 4×4 Derelict line is to celebrate and preserve the original patina and exterior trim of each vehicle, and in regards to the EV Mercury here, to dramatically improve the usability of a living piece of American automotive history with electrification. It truly is the perfect combination of old meets new and we’re here for it.

Using their cutting-edge automotive ingenuity, ICON disassembled the body, replaced all rubber, and added insulation and sound-deadening products. They then reassembled it to make it look like nothing had been touched. A full Tesla Performance 85kWh battery array was added and strategically fit throughout the vehicle for excellent weight balance. It is capable of an estimated 150 – to 200 – mile range and has 1.5-hour full recharge capability.

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A robust 4-wheel independent chassis was developed with Art Morris on Enterprises alongside Brembo brakes to ensure superior handling and safety. The 1949 Mercury EV Derelict was commissioned by a longtime client, who wanted to push the boundaries of modern EV automotive engineering. The custom aluminium “engine” actually houses the battery controllers and a few of the Tesla modules – designed in a traditional V-8 array with a polished and media-blasted finish for a decidedly vintage aesthetic.

Leo Davie