Belgian Geniuses Perfect One of the Best Mercedes Benz Ever Made

Roel Pollen is the man behind Monceau Automobiles in Hasselt, Belgium, a unique, high-end conversion specialist focusing solely on Mercedes-Benz’s most prestigious classics, SLs. Upon completing its initial 107-series “eSLC,” we were privileged to interview him and discover the team behind the most beautiful electric Mercedes-Benz ever created.

Isn’t it a waste to ditch a 3,300-pound car just because 500 pounds is considered obsolete? 

Roel’s choice for SL and SLC is clever. The 107-series roadster and coupe already have much of the inherent smoothness associated with electric propulsion. The Monceau eSLC chassis #001 is the company’s prototype. Still, for the final-spec cars the team is currently building, the drivetrain, which fits all variants (R107 eSL, C107 eSLC, W111 eSE coupe and convertible), will be built around a slightly different requirement than those of this long-term testing prototype.

EVBG: How did the project start? Why did you choose a Mercedes Benz brand and this model in particular?

Monceau Automobiles was officially founded in July 2020, but the journey started in 2018 when I had the idea to begin electrifying Mercedes-Benz R107 SLs. Back then, why did one have to ditch a 3,300-pound car just because 500 pounds of it is considered obsolete? While browsing the internet, I found our current CTO Klaas De Craemer electrified several vehicles but was mainly known at that time for his Mazda MX-5 build. Together we first made a business plan to see if we could start a business specifically for Mercedes-Benz electric classics.

Parallel to us, Tom Van de Cruys (our third founding partner) was working on a private project to electrify a Mercedes-Benz SLC (this car) together with TeKshift, in which he is 50% owner and which is still our partner for control software and battery management system. We found each other via social media and, long story short, decided to found a company together.

So in 2019, we made a full 3D scan of an SLC and planned the process—full mechanical and software simulation. We use Dutch battery technology, plus a Swiss motor and charger mixed with high-tech components from the US. Batteries and components are liquid-cooled, hence the dual temperature dial inside. The power is mainly limited and controlled by the electric motor’s temperature, so cooling is essential. Batteries are distributed between front and rear to get that 50/50 balance, creating a fantastic driving experience.

EVBG: Why, specifically Mercedes-Benz? 

The Monceau eSLC is a coupe with self-confidence and style, offering a unique appeal. While it competed with Italian and British sports coupes of its time, it distinguished itself by prioritizing practicality without sacrificing form. As a result, the eSLC remains a practical four-seater coupe suitable for everyday use, with ample space in the front and rear seating for two adults, along with a generous boot space for packing belongings. Furthermore, the electric drivetrain of the Monceau models complements these iconic vehicles, and the team behind them shares a genuine passion for the brand. Currently, Monceau is working on four models: the R107 eSL, the C107 eSLC, the W111 coupe, and the W111 convertible, all equipped with Monceau’s proprietary in-house developed electric drivetrain.

EVBG: What was this prototype’s process, from design and construction to completion?

The process began by creating a detailed specification build sheet that outlined our specific requirements and desired features for this particular model, as well as the drivetrain that could be adapted to multiple models. Collaborating with our team and TeKshift, we carefully selected all the necessary partners to build the drivetrain. To adhere to our requirement of using only brand-new parts, major components such as the motor, inverter, charger, DCDC, and batteries were sourced from European suppliers.

Each platform we work on undergoes a comprehensive digitalization process using 3D technology. The entire drivetrain was designed using CATIA and the Dassault Systems 3D Experience Platform, ensuring precision and accuracy. Moreover, the complete control software was developed and thoroughly tested virtually before implementation in the actual car.

This approach allows for a more meticulous and secure process than a traditional “trial-and-error” or analog approach. During the building process, we encountered only minor mechanical issues, which were promptly addressed, while software adjustments mainly involved calibration and fine-tuning.

When it comes to production vehicles, a carefully sourced donor car is acquired and subjected to a full restoration before being converted to meet contemporary EV standards. The addition of a new instrument cluster featuring a subtle OLED screen is the only noticeable indication that this SLC has been transformed into an eSLC.

Battery technology plays a crucial role in electric vehicles, and at Monceau Automobiles, we prioritize its importance. To ensure optimal performance and longevity, our battery packs are equipped with liquid cooling, which helps maintain consistent performance in various weather conditions. With a substantial 52 kWh of energy storage, we have achieved a range that surpasses the requirements for our high-end classic models.

Charging the battery packs is facilitated by a Swiss-made 22kW charger, allowing for a full range recharge in approximately two hours. However, for customers seeking even faster charging, we offer the option to include fast charging capabilities in their electric classic vehicles. This option further reduces charging times and enhances convenience for our customers.

EVBG: Were Mercedes Benz’s interiors of this vintage so flamboyant?

During the 18 years of W107 production, Mercedes-Benz offered a wide range of interior options, including fabrics, velours, leathers, and the popular M.B. Tex faux leather. Monceau Automobiles has faithfully recreated the original interior setups for their vehicles. Customers can choose from a selection of 150 authentic Mercedes-Benz paint colors and eight interior colors, allowing for personalized customization. Furthermore, customers can specify different periods, such as the 1972 Edition, mid-range 1981 Edition, or late 1988 Edition, to capture the specific era they desire. The customization options extend to European or American spec cars and various wheel sizes.

For those seeking a departure from the original vintage Mercedes styling, Monceau offers the exquisite Monceau Style Edition. These cars are equipped with unique and bespoke 16-inch Monceau one-piece cast aluminum wheels inspired by the original hubcap design from the early 1970s. The interior of the Monceau Style Edition focuses on comfort, featuring the finest leathers and special fabrics reminiscent of the iconic Gullwing models. A full leather-covered steering wheel and shifter enhance the luxurious feel. The audio system includes an original Becker Mexico radio with modernized circuitry, offering features such as four-channel FM stereo, USB playback and charging, and Bluetooth wireless streaming for platforms like Spotify.

Complete turn-key vehicles, including the sourced donor car, full bare-shell restoration, and rebuild with the Monceau proprietary electric drivetrain, start at a price of $245,000. This comprehensive package provides customers with a fully functional and customized electric classic car.

EVBG: What’s the future plan for Monceau Automobiles? 

As you can observe in the workshop, there are a W111 and an R107 that are prepared for complete restoration. Following Prototype #001, it is expected that these two vehicles will be restored, possibly even within this year. We are currently finishing our own body shop for full in-house restoration in Hasselt, and our goal is to complete six cars in 2023, marking our first full year in operation. Our focus initially lies on the 107-series, but any Mercedes-Benz model considered iconic and produced between 1950 and 1985 has the potential to become a Monceau product. It’s important to note that we exclusively concentrate on Mercedes classics.

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SPECS

Monceau Automobiles

• Location: Hasselt, Belgium
• Model: 1981 Mercedes-Benz 280 SLC
• Vehicle Name: Monceau eSLC Prototype
• Overall Vehicle Weight: 1,550 kg (original); 1,580 kg (EV)
• Amount of Time to Build: 18 months

Motor & Drivetrain 

• Motor Swap Performed By: Monceau Automobiles
• Motor Drive Unit Year, Make, Model: 2021 new Swiss-made Permanent Magnet Axial Flux Motor
• Power: 150kW/201hp
• Torque: 640Nm/472 lb-ft (peak)
• Voltage: 400 volts
• Max RPM: 6,000
• Peak Power RPM: 2,000
• Max Continuous Power: 90kW
• Peak Current: 450A
• Max Continuous Current: 250A
• Control System and Software: TeKshift
• 0 to 60 Time: 7.8 seconds

Battery System & Charger

• Pack Design: Monceau Automobiles & Power Battery
• Cell Type: 18650 NCA
• Module Manufacturer & Configuration: Power Battery
• Battery Capacity: 52kWh
• Battery Locations:  Front and rear packs in the engine bay and where the original fuel tank was
• Highway Range: 125 miles
• City Range: 185 miles
• Charger Rate: 22kW AC three-phase
• Charger Location: Engine bay
• DC Fast Charging: Not in this prototype, but all final cars have CCS fast charging at 80kW
• Battery packs are fully liquid-cooling

Chassis/Suspension 

• Installation Shop: Monceau Automobiles
• Springs: Custom-made springs
• Shocks: Koni Shocks all round

Wheels, Tires & Brakes 

• Front and Rear Wheels: Monceau 16-inch custom forged aluminum rims (6.0×16.5×112 ET30)
• Front and Rear Tires: 205/60R16 92H Michelin e-Primacy
• Front and Rear Brakes: Disc
• Gears/Ratio: 3.92 upgraded differential
• Driveshaft: Extended driveshaft

Body/Paint 

• Paint Shop: Monceau Automobiles
• Color: Magnetite Blue DB931 with pearl metallic effect

Interior 

• Install Shop: Monceau Automobiles
• Seats: Full custom interior with blue and white leather combined with Mercedes 300 SL Gullwing fabric and full Alcantara headliner
• Gauges: In-house designed gauge cluster with original style gauges, controlled by VCU over CANbus.
• HVAC System: Not installed in this car. Production vehicles get a system for all platforms with a 400V compressor for A/C and PTC air heater.
• Radio Head Unit: Original Becker Europa, which has been digitized and comes with full integrated Bluetooth and four-channel FM stereo

Price
Turn-key, complete vehicle starts at $245,000, including the donor car sourced by Monceau and full bare-shell restoration

Contact Information
monceau-automobiles.com 

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