Kindred Motorworks, the Bay Area producer of modernized vintage vehicles, revealed its electric 3100 pickup truck today and opened pre-orders to prospective customers at KindredMotorworks.com. The Kindred 3100 is based on the 1947-1953 Chevrolet 3100, and it rounds out Kindred’s launch-model lineup.
“We’re so happy to finally share the Kindred 3100, which rounds out our diverse launch-model lineup,” said Kindred Motorworks founder and CEO, Rob Howard. “The 3100 is a pure EV that combines iconic looks and inherent practicality with a clean, advanced, and easy-to-use powertrain.”
A PURE EV, RETRO IN APPEARANCE ONLY
The Kindred 3100 carries a starting MSRP of $159,000 and is powered by a 294-horsepower direct drive electric AC motor driving the rear wheels. Energy is supplied by 74 kWh battery that provides up to 200 miles of operating range. KORE Power is Kindred Motorworks’ exclusive supplier of battery modules. The 3100’s 6.6 kW on-board charger supports both 120v and 240v charging, with a full charge taking approximately nine hours using a Level 2 charger, which is what customers are likely to have installed in their homes.
The Kindred 3100 also features a double wishbone front suspension, rack and pinion steering, and is protected by a 1-year bumper-to-bumper warranty. Other standard features include power disc brakes at all four wheels, electric power steering, an electronic parking brake, a 1000-watt 120v power inverter that feeds a bed-mounted outlet and USB ports, keyless entry, power locks and windows, and a vehicle recovery system. The 3100’s 17-inch wheels are styled like the originals right down to their chrome Chevrolet hubcaps, but shod in modern Continental TrueContact Tour tires.
MODERN AMENITIES, HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT
The classic Chevrolet 3100s were utilitarian vehicles designed to work. The Kindred 3100 preserves that aura, but layers in contemporary amenities that offer comfort and convenience that the original designers could never have envisioned. Inside the heated and air-conditioned cab, occupants will find retractable three-point seat belts, a heated leather bench seat with headrests, and a center armrest with cupholders. When not in use, the armrest can be stowed to make the center seating position available for an additional passenger.
The instrument panel features an original-style gauge cluster that, upon closer inspection, presents EV-specific information to the driver. Gear selection is performed via a rotary selector. A touchscreen media center connected to a three-speaker audio system with subwoofer displays the view from the 3100’s backup camera and supports both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless phone-charging dock adds even more convenience.
Outside, drivers will find full LED lighting, an original-style split windshield (now cleaned by intermittent wipers), and a functional original cowl fresh-air vent. The charging door is flush-mounted on the fender. The bed is designed to be used as intended, with marine-grade waterproof flooring, modular tie-downs, and a push-button tailgate featuring hidden links. The textured surface on the running boards and inside the bed is color-matched to the truck.
“We take so much pride in every vehicle we make, and the Kindred 3100 is no exception,” said Rob Howard. “It represents balance—a beautiful design that’s fun and easy to own and drive, but that isn’t afraid to do a little dirty work as well.”
Kindred Motorworks’ full launch-model lineup consists of the Kindred 3100, the Kindred VW Bus, the Kindred Bronco, and Kindred Camaro.
All four models are available for pre-order now at KindredMotorworks.com.
