Classic Retrofit
Classic Retrofit Ltd is a UK-based manufacturer that designs and sells direct-replacement electronic upgrades — including electric air conditioning, CDI+ ignition units, and high-output alternators — for classic Porsche 911s, Land Rover Defenders, classic EV conversions, and race/specialty vehicles, sold globally via a direct-to-consumer Shopify webstore.
- Company typePrivate
- Founded2015
- HeadquartersFramfield, United Kingdom
- Headcount1–10
- GTM typeB2C
- OfferingHardware or Manufacturing
What Classic Retrofit does
Classic Retrofit Ltd is a privately held UK manufacturer that designs and sells direct-replacement electronic upgrades for classic cars and classic EV conversions. The company operates from a single manufacturing and office facility in Uckfield, East Sussex, and sells exclusively through a Shopify-hosted direct-to-consumer webstore with global DHL Express shipping. Its product portfolio centers on the proprietary Electrocooler 12V electric air conditioning system (the first 12V electric A/C offering cooling comparable to engine-driven units, with an IP67-rated compressor under 1 HP draw), CDI+ ignition units in 3-pin, 6-pin, and 8-pin configurations as drop-in replacements for vintage Bosch CDI boxes, high-output 175A alternators (Denso 6-phase hairpin design, co-developed with WOS Performance), and LED-equipped blade fuse panels. The 400V Electrocooler and PTC heater lines extend these offerings to EV-converted classics, including Tesla-powered builds.
Customer segments are vertically organized around vehicle platforms: classic Porsche 911 (F Body pre-1973, G Body 1973-1989, and 964/993 air-cooled models), Land Rover Defender 200/300Tdi, classic EV conversion shops, and race/specialty vehicle builders. Pain points addressed include obsolete ignition reliability, insufficient charging capacity, missing or poorly performing factory A/C, and the absence of climate-control options engineered specifically for 400V retrofits. The 2024 launch of the Defender HVAC system, followed by EV-conversion and race-car SKUs, has diversified the platform mix beyond a pure Porsche heritage brand.
The revenue model is straightforward unit-based product sales with no recurring software or service subscription layer. Prices typically range from $15 (consumable tools) to roughly $6,800 (complete Defender or 911 HVAC systems), with custom/made-to-order configurations carrying 3-6 week lead times. The company supplements its DTC channel with a Technical Support Forum, YouTube technical content, social channels, and an installer map that collectively support community-led discovery and conversion. The company also provides OEM and bespoke-manufacturer consulting on HVAC and ignition integration, though consulting is a secondary rather than disclosed revenue stream. No public revenue, headcount, or funding data are disclosed.
Classic Retrofit firmographics
Firmographics- Name
- Classic Retrofit
- Legal name
- Classic Retrofit Ltd
- Website
- https://classicretrofit.com
- Company type
- Private
- Founded year
- 2015
- Operating status
- Operating
- Headcount range
- 1–10 employees
- Short description
- Classic Retrofit Ltd is a UK-based manufacturer that designs and sells direct-replacement electronic upgrades — including electric air conditioning, CDI+ ignition units, and high-output alternators — for classic Porsche 911s, Land Rover Defenders, classic EV conversions, and race/specialty vehicles, sold globally via a direct-to-consumer Shopify webstore.
- Ownership category
- akta.pro rank
Classic Retrofit industry classification
Industry- Product category
- Classic Car Electronics and Aftermarket Parts
- NAICS
- Motor Vehicle Electrical and Electronic Equipment Manufacturing (33632), Other Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing (336390), Automotive Parts and Accessories Retailers (44133)
- SIC
- Motor Vehicle Parts & Accessories (3714), Electronic Components, Nec (3679)
- akta.pro primary industry
- Automotive Power Electronics & Inverters/Converters Manufacturing (IMACAJAE)
Keywords
Where Classic Retrofit is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- Framfield
- HQ country
- United Kingdom
- HQ region
- Europe
Offices1 record
Markets served
Classic Retrofit business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2C
- Offering type
- Hardware or Manufacturing
- Cost components
- Supply Chain, Personnel, Operations, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure
Revenue model
- Product Sales: One-time product sales through e-commerce webstore. Products include complete A/C systems, ignition upgrades, alternators, fuse panels, and individual components. Mix of made-to-order systems and stocked items.
- Global Shipping: International shipping revenue through DHL Express. Customers outside UK pay duties and taxes directly to destination country customs.
Pricing tiers
| Model | Billing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Land Rover Defender Electric Air Conditioning System - Complete HVAC System |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Electric Air Conditioning for Classic 911 - Single Condenser |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Electric Air Conditioning for Classic 911 - Dual Condenser |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Electric Air Conditioning for Classic 911 - Half System |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | 911 CDI+ (3-Pin) Ignition Unit |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Upgraded 6-pin CDI Package for 911 SC and Turbo |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Upgraded 3-pin CDI Package for Early 911 |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Porsche 911 High Output 175A Alternator (1984-1989) |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Porsche 911 High Output 175A Alternator (1974-1983) |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | 911 Front Fuse Panel 1974-1989 |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Electric Air Conditioning for Classic EV 400v - 911 |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Electric Air Conditioning for Porsche 964 and 993 |
| Unit Pricing | Pay-as-you-go | Hose Crimp Pliers for Oetiker Clips |
Go-to-market motion2 records
Distribution channels2 records
Marketing channels6 records
Classic Retrofit product offering
Product offeringCore offering
Classic Retrofit designs and manufactures direct-replacement electronic upgrades for classic cars and classic EV conversions. Core products include the proprietary Electrocooler 12V electric air conditioning system, CDI+ ignition units, high-output 175A alternators, and plug-and-play blade fuse panels tailored for specific classic vehicle platforms (Porsche 911 G Body, F Body, 964/993, Land Rover Defender 200/300Tdi, and EV conversions). The company also consults with OEM and bespoke build specialist manufacturers on HVAC and ignition systems.
Product overview
Classic Retrofit designs and manufactures direct-replacement electronic upgrades for classic cars and classic EV conversions. The product portfolio centers on electric air conditioning systems (Electrocooler) for various classic vehicles including Porsche 911 (G Body 1973-1989, F Body pre-1973, and 964/993), Land Rover Defender, and Electric Vehicle conversions. Supporting products include high output 175A alternators, CDI+ ignition systems (3-pin, 6-pin, and 8-pin variants), blade fuse panels, blower units, condensers, evaporators, heater systems, and various installation accessories. The company also consults with OEM and bespoke build specialist manufacturers on HVAC and ignition systems.
Differentiator
Problem solved
Functional benefit
Brands
- Electrocooler: Brand name for the company's 12V electric A/C system products, including the Electrocooler compressor and electric air conditioning systems.
Products and services
- Land Rover Defender Electric Air Conditioning System Complete HVAC system engineered for Land Rover Defender 200 & 300Tdi models, featuring a 12V electric A/C compressor, condenser with fan, blower evaporator unit, climate control unit, dash ducts and vents, and plug-and-play wiring harness. Available in Left Hand Drive and Right Hand Drive variants with 4-6 week lead time at $6,803.
- Electric Air Conditioning for Classic 911 (G Body) Electric A/C systems designed for seamless integration into the G Body 911 platform (1973-1989), available in full kit, half system, single condenser, and dual condenser configurations. Includes the Gen 2 Blower. Systems weigh 30-35 lbs.
- Electric Air Conditioning and Electrical Upgrades for Early 911 (F Body) Products for pre-1973 Porsche 911, featuring high quality fuse panels, performance alternators, and signature CDI ignition systems for the F Body platform.
- Electric Air Conditioning for Porsche 964 and 993 Electric A/C system for Porsche 964 and 993 models using an electric compressor pump; ships with two condensers for increased cooling performance. Available as High Performance Evaporator ($5,579) or No Evaporator ($4,863) variants, with 4-5 week lead time.
- Classic EV Conversions A/C and Climate Control Electric A/C systems and associated products designed specifically for classic cars with 400V electric conversions, including Tesla-powered conversions. Includes the 400V Electrocooler compressor/ECU module and 400V PTC brick heaters.
- High Output 175A Alternators High output alternators developed in conjunction with WOS Performance; highest output alternators available for classic Porsche 911, based on Denso 6 phase hairpin alternator technology. UK-manufactured with custom casing to fit all 911 fan housings 1965-1989. Idle output exceeds 75A, tested at 150A on standard pulley. Available in 1974-1983 and 1984-1989 variants at $1,139-$1,182.
- CDI+ Ignition Systems CDI+ ignition units in 3-pin, 6-pin, and 8-pin configurations; direct replacements for Bosch CDI units with modern ignition technology in vintage-looking aluminium cases. Features programmable rev limiters and improved voltage regulation. Over 350 units supplied worldwide. Available for Porsche 911 1969-1977, SC and Turbo models, and early 911 packages ($1,425-$1,712).
- Blade Fuse Panels Direct replacement fuse panels for classic Porsche 911 (1974-1989) featuring LED fuse failure indicators and integrated headlamp relays. Plug-and-play installation requiring no modifications to original wiring loom. 21-way fuse panel priced at $423 + VAT.
- Single to Dual Condenser Conversion Kit Conversion kit to add a second air conditioning condenser for improved cabin cooling performance in hot and humid tropical climates (>35°C), enabling the dual condenser configuration for the Classic 911 G Body.
- Electrocooler AC Compressor and ECU (12V) Standalone electric compressor and ECU module for 12V vehicles; enables car builders to install A/C where an engine-driven compressor cannot be fitted. Weighs approximately 6 kg. Sold as a unit for integration into custom builds.
- Electrocooler AC Compressor and ECU (400V EV) Electric compressor and ECU module for Electric Vehicles running 220V to 400V battery packs; not a complete A/C system, sold for integration into EV conversion builds. Weighs approximately 6 kg.
- 400V PTC Brick Heater (1100W) Standalone PTC brick heater for electric vehicles running 220V to 400V battery packs; features onboard solid state switching for heat level control. 1100W output.
- 400V PTC Brick Heater with Fan and Ducting (1100W) PTC heater package with onboard solid state switching for VW/Porsche EV conversions; 60mm outlet compatible with VW/Porsche ducting; includes fan and ducting for complete heating solution.
Quantifiable outcome
- 2,000+ 12V electric A/C systems manufactured and supplied over 10 years
- +3 more outcomes
Companies that use Classic Retrofit
Customer profileSegments4 records
Ideal customer profiles5 records
Classic Retrofit technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed Yes
API detail
- Has API
- No
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
Feature5 records
Classic Retrofit partnerships and signals
Strategic signalScale indicators3 records
Recent moves6 records
Expansion highlights5 records
Classic Retrofit competitors and assessment
Company assessmentDirect peers
- Everrati Automotive: UK-based specialist in converting classic Porsche 911s (and other icons) to electric powertrains. A direct buyer-side peer — Everrati uses or competes for climate-control solutions for the same 911 platform in the EV-conversion market Classic Retrofit's 400V products target.
- Stoddard: US-based classic Porsche parts, restoration and sales specialist. Comparable as a long-standing classic 911 aftermarket brand addressing the same enthusiast buyer persona with complementary restoration products.
- EV West: US-based pioneer in classic car EV conversions with proprietary electric powertrain kits. Comparable as a customer/adjacent supplier in the classic EV conversion ecosystem where high-voltage HVAC modules are required.
- LN Engineering: US-based Porsche specialist offering engine, transmission and accessory upgrades for air-cooled 911s. Comparable classic-Porsche aftermarket brand with overlapping enthusiast customer base and DTC distribution model.
- Old Air Products: Specialist in aftermarket air conditioning systems for hot rods, street rods and classic vehicles. Closely comparable to Classic Retrofit's Electrocooler line in both product category and customer segment (enthusiast restoration).
- Electric Classic Cars: Wales-based specialist in classic-to-EV conversions. Like Everrati, an overlapping customer for 400V Electrocooler climate-control modules and a competing source of complete restoration services for the same classic-car owner persona.
- Restomod Air: Aftermarket climate control supplier focused on restomod and pro-touring builds, including classic Chevys, Mustangs and trucks. Comparable in offering HVAC upgrades that preserve OEM aesthetics while adding modern performance.
- Vintage Air: US-based leading manufacturer of aftermarket air conditioning systems for classic and custom cars. Direct competitor in the classic-car HVAC retrofit space with comparable plug-and-play, originality-preserving product positioning.
Broad incumbents
- Webasto: Global tier-1 automotive supplier of HVAC, roof and thermal-management systems. Operates broadly across passenger, commercial and EV markets and represents the large-scale competitive threat as electrification expands into classic vehicle conversions.
- Porsche Classic: OEM division of Porsche responsible for classic car parts, restoration and factory-grade service. Represents the official supply channel for classic 911 owners and a benchmark for authenticity standards Classic Retrofit's plug-and-play products must meet.
Market position
Strengths5 records
Weaknesses5 records
Competitive moat4 records
Key risks6 records
Key highlights7 records
Customer concentration
Classic Retrofit social profiles
Digital presenceClassic Retrofit financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
Classic Retrofit leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Profiles1 record
Classic Retrofit funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds
Investors
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Classic Retrofit M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A
Investments
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about Classic Retrofit
What does Classic Retrofit do?
Classic Retrofit designs and manufactures direct-replacement electronic upgrades for classic cars and classic EV conversions. Core products include the proprietary Electrocooler 12V electric air conditioning system, CDI+ ignition units, high-output 175A alternators, and plug-and-play blade fuse panels tailored for specific classic vehicle platforms (Porsche 911 G Body, F Body, 964/993, Land Rover Defender 200/300Tdi, and EV conversions). The company also consults with OEM and bespoke build specialist manufacturers on HVAC and ignition systems.
Is Classic Retrofit a public or private company?
Classic Retrofit is a private company. It is classified as founder individual operated bootstrapped and is currently operating.
When was Classic Retrofit founded?
Classic Retrofit was founded in 2015. It employs 1 to 10 people.
Where is Classic Retrofit based?
Classic Retrofit is headquartered in Framfield, United Kingdom, in the Europe region.
How does Classic Retrofit make money?
Two revenue lines are on record. Product Sales are the primary driver. The others are global Shipping.
Who are Classic Retrofit's main competitors?
Direct peers on record are Everrati Automotive, Stoddard, EV West, LN Engineering, Old Air Products, Electric Classic Cars, Restomod Air and Vintage Air. Broad incumbents are Webasto and Porsche Classic.
Does Classic Retrofit have an API?
No public API is recorded for Classic Retrofit.
What industry is Classic Retrofit in?
Classic Retrofit's product category is Classic Car Electronics and Aftermarket Parts. Its primary akta.pro industry code is IMACAJAE, Automotive Power Electronics & Inverters/Converters Manufacturing. Its NAICS code is 33632 and its SIC code is 3714.