Sam Krahn 
When the whole concept of pro touring became popular years ago, it usually involved taking a classic car and giving modernizing it through upgrades to the powertrain, handling, exterior and interior. Point being, you usually end up with something that shares the basis of the vehicle you started with. This is not the case for the Aviar R67, a Russian startup that drops a carbon fiber classic Ford Mustang body on top of a custom carbon and aluminum chassis. Oh, and it’s powered by the propulsion system of a Tesla Model S.
It’s as novel as it is sacrilegious.
Aviar first came on the scene in 2018, when the revealed the R67. While the car was, and still is a bit of a sketchy mystery, the Russian company has just shown some new pictures of how the R67 is made. Even though they are just showing a body shell, it’s the first time we have seen a physical car, as all past images have been renders. That body shell is full carbon fiber, there isn’t a single panel made from anything else. It’s a very pretty thing.
As mentioned, the Aviar R67 is powered by Tesla Model S internals. This allows for 840 hp, and Aviar estimates the R67 will rocket from 0 to 60 mph in only 2.2 seconds. The top speed is said to be 150 mph. The R67 will go 315 miles on a charge. Expect that to drop if you enjoy using your 840 hp regularly.
The chassis is an interesting blend of Tesla and Aviar. The front and rear subframes are straight out of the Model S. This probably makes fitting the electric motors easier. The middle of the car is a custom carbon fiber tub. It must be an extremely rigid chassis from all of the batteries and carbon construction. Furthermore, utilizing lightweight materials in the chassis and body helps keep the weight down in a heavy electric car.
Like the exterior, the interior is a modernization of a classic Ford Mustang. There is a Tesla-esque center touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, and plenty of leather and ambient lighting. It looks like a very nice place to be.
The deal breaker or maker is the V8 simulated noise on offer. If there is a time when internal combustion engines are gone, it could be a nice touch. But right now, if it is going to be an EV, let it be an EV. The Aviar R67 is a beautiful and impressive thing in it’s own right, so why are they trying to make it something it’s not? Nonetheless, if you’re looking for an retro EV Mustang, Avair is taking inquiries on their website.
