It may seem counterintuitive to blend the heritage of a classic car with the technological advancement of an electric vehicle (EV). However, this is an option that more and more motorists are considering. So, why convert a classic car to electric power?
Aside from being more environmentally friendly, an EV conversion of a classic car can sometimes increase its performance. Vintage motors receive a new lease of life, increasing their usability and longevity as roadworthy vehicles.
Stuart Simonsen of Billings, MT explains more of the reasons for converting to electric during a classic car restoration below.
An Electric Engine Gives Greater Performance
As a car ages, it can lose horsepower and engine performance. Fitting an electric motor into a classic car will significantly improve speed and acceleration. EV specialists also perfectly balance the battery packs for the best weight distribution to enhance handling and performance.
EVs have Reduced Costs and Maintenance
Compared to a vehicle that consumes only gas, electric vehicles are much more cost-effective to fuel up. Research has shown that EV owners spend 60% less on powering their vehicles than other drivers, meaning they can quickly gain a return on investment from converting their classic cars.
Switching to an electric motor can also cut down on maintenance and repair costs. As electric engines are newer and have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines, certain expenses such as oil changes and tune-ups are no longer relevant.
As electric motors and batteries are newer technologies, they can alleviate the cost of sourcing replacement parts for rarer classic cars.
Changes are Discreet
The image and aesthetic appeal of a classic car are what bring many people to own them. Thankfully, the process of converting to an electric engine doesn’t compromise a car’s appearance.
From the outside, the chassis remains untouched, although the exhaust may be removed. Someone would only truly know that it was an EV by lifting the hood!
EV Conversion Gives Classic Cars Longevity
Often, classic cars can become run-down and become more and more expensive to repair when they break down. On other occasions, due to long periods of being stored in garages, warehouses, and barns without being run, their engines can seize, rendering the car unusable.
This often becomes the point when classic cars are scrapped, often taking with them many precious motoring memories.
Switching out an unreliable or non-working engine and restoring a classic car as an EV allows it to be used once again. As mentioned above, with greater performance and easier maintenance, converted classic cars often see greater use on the road as the fear of them breaking down is alleviated.
How to Start the Process
For anyone looking to convert their classic car into an EV, there are two options available.
For the mechanically trained or able, EV conversion kits can be purchased to be installed at home. This option is a cheaper choice but lacks the expertise of an EV conversion specialist.
Otherwise, many EV conversion companies can take care of the entire process. Some specialize in certain vehicles, so their knowledge lends itself perfectly to a perfect, balanced restoration. This option can be costly depending on the specifications required and the vehicle in question but leads to a great result and oftentimes added value.
