Electric cars are no longer a novelty—they’re an integral part of the automotive landscape. But let’s face it, why are so many of them so painfully uninspiring to look at? But the same could be said for many modern ICE cars, to be fair. So, what’s the solution? Simple: take an iconic design and electrify it. That’s exactly what we have here—a Volvo 850 turned into a cutting-edge EV.
This jaw-dropping build started as a digital concept by Mean Machines and was brought to life by Hote Design, who handled the exterior transformation. The rest of the project, including the drivetrain and all the mind-bending tech, was conceived and built by the creative wizards at JP Performance. Jean Pierre Kramer, the mastermind behind JP Performance, has made a name for himself by pushing boundaries, and this Volto 850 was undoubtedly one of the highlights of his stand at the Essen Motor Show.
Unlike most modern EVs, this one doesn’t just plug in and drive—it gives you choices. The EV drivetrain, positioned cleverly behind the front seats, powers both the front and rear wheels. Using a simple control interface where the gear shifter would usually be, you can toggle the power distribution to suit your preference: all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or front-wheel drive. It’s this kind of versatility that sets the Volto 850 apart from the sea of soulless electric commuters.
While details on this project are still scarce, what we know so far is enough to make any car enthusiast salivate. From the race car-inspired design to the cutting-edge EV setup, this Volvo is more than just a showpiece—it’s a statement. And judging by early impressions, it’s blisteringly quick.
A video (see below) showcasing the car in action gives a sneak peek of its performance potential, and it’s safe to say that calling it “fast” would be an understatement. With JP Performance’s track record, we can’t wait for the first full test drive to hit the road and our screens.
The Volto 850 isn’t just an electric car—it’s a bold reimagining of an iconic model for a new era. It combines the charm of the classic Volvo 850 with the possibilities of modern EV technology. At a time when many electric cars feel sterile and uninspired, this build proves that electrification doesn’t have to mean the end of personality, style, and fun.
We’ll be keeping a close eye on this project as more details emerge. If this is the future of EV conversions, sign me up.
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