The Icon Derelict is a combination of a classic VW and a modern EV in a beautiful package.
Jonathan Ward, founder of Icon, regularly create incredible machines such as fully restored and upgraded Toyota FJ40 Land Cruisers. The team’s latest in the Derelicts series of special restomods creates an electric vehicle. It uses a 1973 Volkswagen Thing, which is incredibly quirky, as its basis.
According to YouTube, the Derelict Thing (which Ward’s team calls the Wild Thing) uses an AM Racing electric engine that produces 180 horsepower (134 Kilowatts) as well as 210 pound feet (285 Newton-meters). Ward claims it produces 180 lb-ft (244 Nm), but Ward did not specify this. It is stunning in its packaging. Icon packs all of the components in a small space within the Thing’s rear engine compartment. The luggage compartment under the hood is occupied by 40 kilowatt-hours of batteries. The road handling is also improved by Wilwood brakes, adjustable coilovers and sway bars.
The original Thing in America was a 1.6-liter flat-four-cylinder with 46 horsepower. The performance of the tiny car is transformed by Icon’s new powertrain. Ward shows that it can drift, as Ward has shown.
Icon inside retains the Thing’s utilitarian design but adds modern conveniences. The new digital display is a modern take on the traditional analog gauges and includes information about the battery’s current state. An array of speakers at the front and back give the stereo a major upgrade.
This Thing looks great to drive. We would love to take the hardtop off, lower the windshield and ride around in this fun car all summer. Icon’s client should also have lots of fun with it.
Ward teases that Icon is working on another electric project, but doesn’t reveal any details. This hint could indicate that the Icon Helios concept has finally come to fruition.