Automobiles Kindred Motorworks: Keeping Classics On The RoadThe California company creating the blueprint for how resto-mods should be done.

What’s In It For You?

So how exactly does Kindred manage to foster this kind of systematization? In short: through a proprietary technology known as Blueprint.

“Kindred’s team of designers, engineers, and auto specialists spend over 10,000 hours prototyping, testing, and designing every model,” says Howard. From there, the data is then uploaded to the Blueprint platform, turning the restoration into more of an objective science rather than a subjective art.

Sure, some might consider it sacrilege, but it’s an approach that’s allowed Kindred to “seamlessly restore different models back-to-back with no deviation in quality.” Much like any off-the-lot car, then, Kindred’s classics are painstakingly refined before going to market. It’s not enough to make the car look good; it also has to stand up to day-to-day driving.

Accordingly, each vehicle is fully modernized as part of its return to service. From the powertrain and tuning to the safety and upholstery, every aspect is examined for improvement. In practice, this makes for a far more transformative restoration than your average, at-home passion project.

Like any off-the-lot purchase, each restoration is automatically entered into the Kindred Registry upon delivery. Beyond ensuring that your car is an authentic original, it also gives exclusive access to the Kindred community, with comprehensive insurance and service programs to boot. As if that wasn’t enough, it even helps track changes in ownership information with full documentation of vehicle transactions.

The Kindred Lineup

Currently, Kindred has three vehicles spanning its lineup: a Ford Bronco based on the first-generation 1966-1975 model years, a Chevrolet Camaro based on the iconic 1969 X-11 model, and a VW Bus based on the Type 1 1950-1967 model years.

In each case, Kindred has worked hard to optimize the drivetrain relative to the vehicle’s purpose; they are true restomods. With the Bronco, this means that you get a 460hp Coyote 5.0 V8 paired with a fresh 4WD system and a set of Hydroboost Powered front and rear disc brakes. 

Not enough power for you? The Camaro, on the other hand, offers 700hp courtesy of its 6.2L Supercharged GM V8. Mated to a 6-speed Tremec T56 manual transmission, it really puts the ‘muscle’ in muscle car.

Of course, as the industry barrels towards full electrification within the next decade, Kindred also wants to offer customers a way to future-proof their vintage vehicles.

For this reason, the leisurely VW Bus is electric only. Powered by a Direct Drive Electric AC Motor, it makes an impressive 294hp with enough juice from its battery for a respectable 200-mile range. Not bad when you consider its humble origins.  

Should you be less concerned with horsepower and engine noise, you can always spec the Bronco or the Camaro with a similar all-electric powertrain. According to Howard, “We started with ICE powertrains and are expanding to offer EV as well. It’s a natural evolution informed by consumer choice and availability in the marketplace.”

If these models aren’t your particular cup of tea, don’t fret — Kindred has plans to add several new vehicles each year. For instance, the latest model in the lineup will be a pickup based on the 1947-1953 Chevrolet 3100.

A Brighter Future

The purists (read: luddites) of the automotive community will inevitably take issue with what Kindred is looking to accomplish. Restomods aren’t for everyone, and electrification is a contentious topic. For those who are willing to suspend their skepticism, however, the model will prove an exciting opportunity. We’re charged with anticipation — the chance to keep more classics on the road is a win in our book, and we think the future looks all the brighter because of it.