When Triumph unveiled the Dolomite to the world at the London Motor Show in 1971, we don’t think that they ever could have imagined an electric powered version. Over 50 years later and Tom has created just that, Triumph’s sporting replacement to the popular Herald has now gone electric!    

Classic car EV conversions are becoming increasingly popular as they bring a new lease of reliability and power to enthusiasts’ much-loved classics. By converting to electric, classic car owners will be able to save money on fuel, road tax and congestion charges as well as servicing costs with electric drive systems being maintenance free. 

Back in 2021 Tom made the decision to embark on his own classic EV conversion journey. He was eyeing up a range of cars to find the best fit for an affordable, fun, and fast electric conversion project… ultimately landing on the Triumph Dolomite. With the Dolomite being a practical British classic, that is readily available and RWD with the petrol tank in the boot, it was the perfect fit for what Tom wanted. Typically, EV conversions take place on exotic, rare cars, but no one has converted a Dolomite before which added to the appeal for Tom.  

All of the EVs being produced today feel over digitalised with huge touch screen displays. However, Tom’s Triumph has retained its period features with minimal gauges inside to retain the original feel. Tom describes the Dolomite as having a “raw, sporty driving feel” truly transforming the Dolomite from a 70’s classic to something that can comfortably keep up with modern traffic.  

Since completing the conversion, the Dolomite has been on a number of Peak District cruises. Going forward, Tom wants to address the matte paintwork, but he simply plans on enjoying the Dolomite for what it is and driving it as much as possible, we can’t argue with that! 

For anyone looking to buy a Triumph Dolomite themselves, whether it be to restore to its original condition or to make it electric, Tom would recommend watching out for rust, particularly in the boot and wheel arches. If this has inspired any of you to undertake your own EV conversion, Tom would advise to opt for a car that has the petrol tank in the boot, giving plenty of room for batteries.  

To see this classic Triumph with a modern heart in action watch Tom’s latest YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zbEVDIY3v4 

Car Facts: 

Make: Triumph 

Model: Dolomite 

Year: 1977 

Engine: Once 1500cc, now Caterpillar electric motor 

BHP: Unknown, need to dyno 

Top Speed: 80mph (geared for acceleration) 

0-62: 7.5 seconds 

Weight: 950kg (not heavier than original!) 

Additional modifications: Electric conversion