The COEV: A 1947 Ford COE Gets an Electric Rebirth in Scottsdale

The EV Reinvention of a 1947 COE

In Scottsdale, Arizona, Dennis and Beth Kilpatrick’s 1947 Ford COE is an impressive exercise in “what-if” and “why-not.” Dubbed the COEV, this build blends cutting-edge electric power with a distinctive rat-rod aesthetic, culminating in a unique vehicle that’s as functional as it is eccentric.

The transformation of this vintage cab-over-engine truck was no small feat. With over 1,000 hours of meticulous craftsmanship, Mark Scalpone and the team at Vintage Iron and Restoration brought their client’s vision to life, infusing personal and thematic touches into every corner of the build. Designed for Dennis, an eye surgeon, the truck includes surgical cues such as visible “stitches” where the cab was chopped and surgical tools placed in the switch gear of the transformer mounted to the bed.

Power and Performance

Under the hood—well, technically on the flatbed—is the star of the show: a ReVolt CR-43 crate motor. Known in the aftermarket EV community for its premium performance, this 400-volt motor produces an impressive 603 horsepower and a staggering 800 lb-ft of torque. Unlike typical installations, the motor is mounted on the flatbed as a showpiece, feeding power through a Casale billet V-drive with a 1:1 gear ratio to a Strange solid rear axle. The setup delivers a 0–60 mph time of just 5.9 seconds, defying the truck’s imposing 4,575-pound weight.

It’s not just a truck; it’s a gnarly work of art.

Adding to the truck’s quirky charm, the motor is encased in an “electric fence” crafted from repurposed items like a fishing rod, camshaft, and pitchfork. Alongside, a reclaimed transformer with vintage high-voltage switching components serves as a functional centerpiece, activating the truck’s fiber-optic lighting system.

The COEV is powered by a 100 kWh battery pack composed of sixteen Tesla Model S modules. These modules are housed in an AmpRevolt modular battery box, strategically placed low and central to optimize weight distribution. This setup gives the truck a respectable range of over 200 miles, a remarkable feat considering its less-than-aerodynamic silhouette.

Chassis and Suspension

To handle the power and weight of the electric drivetrain, the team shortened the chassis of a 2000 Ford F-150. The rear suspension features a Ridetech 4-link setup with Aldan American coilovers, while the front end is equipped with Mustang II control arms and spindles. The result is a surprisingly smooth ride, a necessity for Dennis and his wife, Beth, who wanted the COEV to be as comfortable as it is stylish.

The COEV rides on a set of Wheel Vintique 15×8 wheels, wrapped in Nexen Redline 235/75/R15 tires both front and rear, giving it a period-correct yet rugged look. Wilwood brakes handle stopping duties on all four corners, ensuring modern performance to match the substantial power output.

Interior: Where Practicality Meets Personality

Crawling into the COE’s cab requires some effort, but once inside, the space is unexpectedly roomy. The seating—a rear bench from a 2019 Ford Ranger—adds a modern touch to the vintage interior. Phoenix-based Bell Upholstery ensured that the cabin is both functional and refined, with extensive Dynamat insulation and weather sealing for a quieter ride.

EV conversions often emphasize performance and practicality, but this 1947 Ford COE stands out for its personality.

The custom-painted dash houses Dakota Digital gauges, while an iPad Mini serves as the infotainment hub. Pioneer speakers and JL amplifiers deliver crisp sound, ensuring the interior matches the high level of detail seen throughout the build.

Exterior and Aesthetic

The COEV’s exterior stays true to its rat-rod roots, with a deliberately weathered finish of rust, dirt, and faded paint. The truck’s body features a 4-inch chop, a custom-built flatbed with catwalk grate flooring, and a fabricated visor. Vintage Iron and Restoration also fabricated a “frunk” and deleted the traditional “dog house” for a sleeker appearance.

Lighting is another standout feature, with 7-inch sealed beam headlights upgraded with LED halo rings and projector beams. At the rear, taillights repurposed from a 1957 Thunderbird add a touch of classic flair.

The Evolution of Vintage Iron and Restoration

Founded in 2004 by Mark Scalpone, Vintage Iron and Restoration has been a cornerstone of the Scottsdale classic car scene. Initially specializing in restoring American icons like early Mustangs and Camaros, the shop embraced the challenge of EV conversions in 2020, driven by Scalpone’s vision of innovation.

Their journey into electrification began with a 1972 El Camino, marking their first EV project. Supported by Legacy EV, the team rapidly expanded their expertise, with their lead technician completing rigorous training through Legacy EV’s Fundamentals Bootcamp. Vintage Iron’s early success with the Electric Camino showcased their ability to marry classic style with modern technology.

The 1947 Ford COE represents the next step in their evolution. By combining their renowned craftsmanship with cutting-edge EV technology, Vintage Iron is redefining what’s possible for vintage restorations. With a growing portfolio of electric classics, the team continues to push boundaries, proving that even the quirkiest of builds can embody both innovation and tradition.

Final Thoughts

EV conversions often emphasize performance and practicality, but this 1947 Ford COE stands out for its personality. With its fusion of surgical precision, eccentric artistry, and cutting-edge technology, this build is a true original. It’s not just a truck; it’s a gnarly work of art, and it’s bound to leave a mark wherever it goes.

SPECS

Owner Name: Dennis and Beth Kilpatrick

Location: Scottsdale, Arizona

Year, Make, Model: 1947 Ford COE
Vehicle Name: COEV
Overall Vehicle Weight: 4575 lbs.
Amount of Time to Build: 1300 hours

Motor / Drivetrain

Motor Swap Performed By: Vintage Iron and Restoration
Motor Drive Unit Year, Make, Model: Revolt CR-43
Horsepower/Kilowatt-hours: 604HP (450KW), 100kWh
Torque/Newton Meters: 800lb-ft
Motor/Transmission mounts: Custom
Control Software EV Controls
0- 60 time: 5.9 seconds
¼ mile time: unknown
Batteries: Tesla 100kWh pack
Driveshaft: TWO Aluminum Custom Driveshafts
Other: Casale Billet V-Drive 1:1 gear ratio

Chassis/Suspension

Installation Shop: Vintage Iron and Restoration
Chassis: Shortened 2000 Ford F-150
Rear Suspension Setup: Ridetech 4 Link Suspension
Control Arms: Paul Horton Mustang II
Spindles: Paul Horton Mustang II
Springs: Aldan American Coilovers
Shocks: Aldan American Coilovers

Wheels, Tires & Brakes

Front Wheel Brand, Size, Width, Backspacing: Wheel Vintique 15×8 4inch backspacing
Front Tire Brand and Size: Nexen Redline 235/75/R15
Rear Wheel Brand, Size, Width, Backspacing: Wheel Vintique 15×8 4inch backspacing
Rear Tire Brand and Size: Nexen Redline 235/75/R15
Front Brakes: Wilwood
Rear Brakes: Wilwood
Gears/Ratio: 3.55
Axles: Strange

Body/Paint

Paint Shop: Mother Nature
Color: Yellow, red, rust, brown, dirt, mud
Grille: Stock
Wheelwells: Stock
Bumpers: Custom rear, front delete roll pan
Bed Floor: Catwalk grate material
Body Mods: 4-inch chop, Custom “frunk”, fabricated visor, “Dog House” delete,
Custom built flatbed
Headlights: 7 inch sealed beam, LED halo ring, projector beams
Taillights: 57 Thunderbird/ 38 Ford headlight buckets
Glass: Custom cut smoked

Interior

Install Shop: Bell Upholstery of Phoenix
Seats: Rear seat from a 2019 Ford Ranger
Gauges: Dakota Digital
Steering Wheel: CON2R
A/C System: Vintage Air, electric compressor, high voltage water heater
Custom painted dash: Vintage Iron and Restoration
Radio Head unit: iPad Mini
Amplifiers: JL
Speakers: Pioneer

Sponsors and Special Thanks:

Thanks from the owner: Extra special thanks go to Mark Scalpone and his wonderful group of “rats” down at Vintage Iron and Restoration. Thank you to Logan Necochea and Sean Kelly for all of their hard work in making even the most outrageous ideas a reality.

Thank you to Legacy EV for all of their support and guidance throughout our EV builds here at Vintage Iron and Restoration.

Thank you as well to Revolt Systems, Torque Trends Inc. and Casale Engineering for building the running gear that made getting this monster on the road all possible!