EVs always prove a better buy in the long run, but what if there’s a car you wished was electric but it’s not? Another option is to convert an internal combustion engine (ICE) into an electric one. Sound impossible? It’s not, and businesses have been quick to realize the opportunity and help you do just that! Given the high cost and limited accessibility of a brand-new electric car, converting existing vehicles can be a more sustainable and cost-effective solution.
Businesses That Will Convert Your Gas Vehicle into an Electric Car
According to enrg.io, some of the most popular conversion companies include
- Green Shed Conversion in Florida
- Zelectric Motors in California
- EV4U Custom Conversions
- Atlanta Electric Car Company
One of our favorites is the passionate team at Bisimoto Engineering, who have gone from working exclusively on ICE cars to being one of the teams leading the charge of electric car conversions in Ontario, California. Bisi and his team have converted all kinds of ICE cars, classics, and top-of-the-line models like his Porsche K3V. The challenges and advantages of converting classic cars to electric power include the availability of necessary parts and increased value after conversion. He shared with us that,
“Electrifying a fossil fuel propulsion vehicle can transform a gas-guzzling, inefficient, and/or unreliable car into a fun, maintenance-free automobile. The immediate torque provides a ton of ‘smiles per mile’ and drivers can explore amazing performance without the guilt of emanating harmful greenhouse gases.”
Cars can be converted for many reasons, including keeping a car that means a lot to you but making it electric or experimenting with electric performance. Comparing the running costs and maintenance needs of diesel cars with electric cars shows that electric cars are more cost-effective. Reduced fuel and maintenance costs can make the conversion worth it. Currently, there are no incentives in the U.S. yet, but they may not be far behind.
Another Choice? DIY
The process for electric vehicle conversions can be easier and cheaper if you know something about cars or want to hire a private mechanic. According to Treehugger.com, “Basically, electric conversion involves removing the entire internal combustion engine from a vehicle, installing an electric motor in its place, and also adding a large bank of batteries.” Highlighting the operational benefits of an electric vehicle, such as lower running costs and reduced maintenance needs, makes the transition more appealing.
The best donor cars are lightweight with a manual transmission, such as older car models of:
- VW Rabbit
- Honda Civic
- Nissan Sentra
- Ford Escort
- or light pick-up trucks
The article goes on to state that there are two types of EV conversion kits available:
- Custom kits: these are usually tailored to a specific vehicle models
- Universal kits: these can be installed in a variety of vehicles
Discussing the differences between custom and universal kits for EV conversions helps us understand the tailored nature of custom kits versus the flexibility of universal kits.
How to Covert Your ICE vehicle to an EV
According to motor1.com, mechanics can convert their own EVs using the following steps: The first step, of course, in conversion is to take out all the hardware necessary for a gas-fueled vehicle, such as the engine, fuel tank, muffler, exhaust, starter, and radiator. The motor will be replaced by an electric motor. Needing to replace the engine again after that is rare as it is likely to have an indefinite lifespan. The size of the engine is your choice. Discussing electric motors’ performance and maintenance advantages over traditional gas-powered cars or diesel engines emphasizes their higher torque and reduced maintenance requirements.
Some mechanics use lead-acid batteries, which are often used for golf carts, while others go for lithium batteries, like manufactured EVs contain. Very high-quality batteries, however, can significantly increase range. Some DIYers insist on Tesla parts. Highlighting the trend of retrofitting and converting vintage cars into electric vehicles emphasizes the importance of preserving these iconic automobiles while integrating modern technology.
Mechanics will also need a power regulator to regulate the power between the battery and the motor, a charging system to replenish the battery, and other parts like air conditioning, heating, or power steering.
Legalities
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requirements for registering the converted EV as road-worthy differ by state. However, most green states, such as California, make driving converted EVs on the road as easy as possible.
Summary
Most industry leaders suggest it’s cheaper and significantly easier to purchase a used EV. Still, auto enthusiasts like those eager to save a classic car or an old sports car may enjoy the process.
With the popularity of EVs on the rise and the availability of high-quality parts, if you want an EV and enjoy DIY, electric car conversion may just be your next successful project. For useful tips and inspiration for all auto enthusiasts, check out our friends at Bisimoto Engineering.
