The global collectible car market is currently valued at hundreds of billions of dollars and still showing signs of growth.
As the automotive sector advances, there’s a certain demographic that appreciates the modern technology behind today’s electric vehicles, but still pines for the aesthetic of yesterday’s classic rides.
A new collaboration between two Canadian entities is aimed at addressing this market.
Richmond-based BlueForce Energy this month announced a strategic partnership with Ontario-based Arc Motor Company to advance bespoke electrification kits for vintage vehicles and chassis-specific fleet electrification solutions.
This collaboration will attempt to preserve the legacy of vintage vehicles by keeping them roadworthy in a zero-emission future. It will also support fleet operators with tailored electrification solutions that meet operational demands, according to a statement from the firms.
“Future-proofing automotive history and heritage is critical for our industry,” posits Jayde Zhou, who serves BlueForce as Vice President.
Zhou suggests that “electrification doesn’t erase the character of vintage vehicles, but instead enhances it.”
“Our collaboration with Arc Motor Company, built on shared values and expertise, allows us to combine their market leadership and technical precision with our advanced electrification solutions,” the VP stated. “This will not only unlock a new era of vintage EV vehicles on Canadian roads, but also paves way for fleet electrification.”
Electrification kits offer an opportunity for vintage-vehicle owners and enthusiasts to comply with emerging regulations, Zhou says, improve vehicle reliability and reduce environmental impact, while retaining their automobiles.
It’s not BlueForce’s first rodeo: Earlier this year, the B.C. upstart revealed a collab with Vernon’s Petawatts Auto Marine RV to electrify a 1990 Ford F-250 XLT Lariat.
Chassis-specific electrification solutions, meanwhile, provide fleet operators an opportunity to extend vehicle lifespan, modernize existing vehicles and meet operational requirements, says Sloane Paul, founder and chief executive officer of Arc Motor.
“Turning ICE into EVs enables us to preserve vintage vehicles for a future where gas may not be an option,” Paul says.
“Beyond vintage, this collaboration also enhances our capabilities in fleet electrification, helping commercial operators meet sustainability goals,” she added.
Arc’s vision is to “redefine mobility by blending the soul of classic automobiles with the innovation of modern EV technology—creating vehicles that are not only sustainable but truly unforgettable” by “pioneering a new era where heritage meets high performance, offering premium electric conversions and bespoke EVs that honour the past while driving toward a cleaner, more exciting future.”
The company is pushing to start a “movement” where car enthusiasts, adventurers, and dreamers can “drive into the future” without leaving passion for the classics behind.
BlueForce Energy was established in 2020. Paul founded Arc in 2023.