Incorporated as a UK limited company in 2015, Classic Retrofit was actually established several years before this, when company founder, Jonny Hart, swapped his daily driver Mercedes 280 SLC for a classic Porsche 911 SC in need of restoration.

At that time, Jonny was the MD of an electronics design consultancy within the defence and medical industries, and was looking for a new challenge. His first project on the classic Porsche 911 was an upgraded CDI ignition unit in the original style, but with modern electronics inside. This unique mappable twin-spark ignition was CE approved and proved a successful product, with hundreds now in use around the world.

The CDI ignition unit was followed by an upgraded plug-and-play replacement fuse panel using modern blade fuses and with several innovations including integrated headlamp relays and blown fuse LED indicators. This again sold very well and has seen many imitations! The original panel remains the best and over 1,000 units have now been fitted successfully.

The real breakthrough for Classic Retrofit came when Jonny developed his exceptional electric air conditioning for classic cars, transforming the experience of driving a classic car all year round in any sort of weather. The system - along with the recommended upgraded high-powered alternator - has been incredibly successful and is used to great results by both DIY mechanics and professional car builders and OEMs in the world's most challenging climates.

Now employing 5 people and shipping its products worldwide from its East Sussex headquarters, Classic Retrofit has an enviable reputation within the classic car world. The core products have been complimented by a compact all-in-one air conditioning system for race cars and more, and Jonny and the team now consult and design complete HVAC systems for classic cars including full carbon or aluminium recreations by bespoke constructors, and for classic EV projects.

We also regularly consult with startups and established OEMs (details are limited due to non-disclosure agreements) including EV, supercar and racing car projects.  

We are always happy to discuss our work and our product design capabilities. Contact us with your development enquiries!