A Series 1 Jaguar E-Type restored and enhanced by Berkshire-based Helm, is on its way to the American East Coast.
The Rhode Island Commission is the third car in Helm’s limited series of 20 restomods, with each a unique specification as determined by its buyer. In this case the American enthusiast opted for metallic emerald green paintwork applied to the mostly hand-beaten aluminium body using an electrophoretic technique for unparalleled uniformity and corrosion protection.
The rich Ochre interior has been crafted by Bill Amberg studio in aniline European calf hide and suede. None of the original plastics are to be seen, with even toggle switches artfully covered in leather. A matching set of luggage is provided to fill the space behind the seats.
Helm’s modifications extend to a blueprinted 300 bhp 4.2-litre straight-six engine with a calibrated ECU, fuel injection and hand-polished stainless steel exhaust system. Cooling comes from a new high-efficiency radiator with uprated pumps, pipework and header tank. The gearbox is a Tremec five-speed manual and there’s an organic clutch kit fitted as well. Braking is via aircraft-grade aluminum calipers and vented discs all round, while the suspension is an adjustable Ohlins system with poly bushes front and rear. Speed sensitive electric power steering is also included.
A host of modern-day creature comforts have been added, from soft-close doors and a heated windscreen to a hidden seven-speaker audio system with Apple car play and a reversing camera. This is an E-Type designed to be daily-driven.
“The E-type is rightfully considered an icon in automotive design,” says Helm founder Chedeen Battick, “but I have always felt that it deserves a performance to match. The Rhode Island Commission is the continuation of our mission to take advantage of modern best practice in terms of build and engineering in order to create the ultimate E-type, fit for the expectations of today’s driver, without compromise.”
