helm reimagines a limited run of 20 series 1 jaguar E-types

UK-based helm motorcars has reimagined a limited run of 20 series 1 jaguar E-types. the automotive customization brings together uncompromising production standards with advanced modern technology and bespoke interiors by leather expert bill amberg. the cars, which will never be replicated, will be produced to the exact specifications of the owners, resulting in unique works of automotive art.

first released in 1961 and originally designed by former aeronautics engineer malcom sayer, the series 1 jaguar E-type was described by enzo ferrari as the most beautiful car ever made. sixty years later, with sayer’s mathematically perfect lines flowing seamlessly from long nose to shapely rear, it remains a marvel of automotive engineering. the restoration project by helm motorcars saw its founder chedeen battick source the finest examples of these cars across europe and the UK, and restore them with an obsessive eye for detail and a deep respect for the value of british craftsmanship.

helm’s E-types took more than 3,800-man hours to create. from the steel-reinforced monocoque shell, the handmade aluminum doors and hand built and polished big bore aircraft-grade stainless steel exhaust system, the car features a 300 bhp fast road 3.8 liter normally aspirated engine. elsewhere, modern technology such as electronic speed-sensitive power steering, a bespoke engineered five-speed gearbox, 6 pot alloy front brakes, adjustable suspension, a heated screen and soft close door system, is integrated subtly without interfering with the purity and elegance of the original design.

‘I wanted to create the e-type the way I feel it should be, remaining sensitive to its history, but without a vinyl interior, and without the hassle of carburettor trouble,’ said chedeen. ‘we combine british craftsmanship with the finest standards of modern automotive engineering, instilling a feeling of love, care and attention to detail within each component.’

the interiors were created in collaboration with bill amberg, where a buttery soft suede and plump semi-aniline leather exude luxury. handcrafted aluminum internal panels have been wrapped by amberg’s team of leather craftspeople, while hand-stitched detailing is used on leather toggle switches, a hand stitched steering wheel and matching grab handle. leather upholstery with stitched detailing was completed by the studio, and amberg has created bespoke luggage for each helm e-type, in the form of two sets of his iconic rocket bags, in weekend and briefcase editions.