A recent trend in the classic car market garnering headlines and opinions from many is the conversion to electric vehicles (EVs). An EV conversion replaces an old vehicle’s gasoline or diesel engine with a completely electric battery and motor, but is converting a classic car into an EV worth it? We tackle that big question and more below!
Yes, an EV Conversion Is Often a Great Investment
While it’s certainly a significant undertaking and a weighty decision, an EV conversion can be an excellent choice for your classic car. Some classic car owners may consider it sacrilege to swap out the original engine parts for an EV battery system, but there’s no doubt that the future of the automotive industry is electric. Like the rise of the electric guitar in the mid-20th century that split many musicians and rock and roll fans, electric car conversions can be divisive. However, there’s no stopping the drumbeat of technology. Embracing the wave of electric power in automobiles comes with more benefits than one may think.
The Benefits of Converting Your Classic to an EV
An EV conversion has many advantages besides embracing the future and a more environmentally conscious mindset toward classic cars. It will be a performance boost for your classic car as EVs offer greater torque and acceleration than an older gasoline model. An electric powertrain is also much more reliable and easier to maintain than a decades-old engine, so you can use your classic car more frequently without worrying about reliability. And, of course, no more expensive trips to the gas pumps!
What To Consider Before Your Classic Car EV Conversion
While converting a classic car into an EV is worth it, drivers should still consider a few things first.
Cost
The cost is the most significant barrier to an EV conversion for a classic car. Converting your classic car to an EV is a sizable project requiring much work, skill, and patience. However, you can offset some of these costs by converting to a basic battery and motor system with a lower range than a more advanced EV.
Part Availability
Part availability should always be a concern before embarking on any project or work on a classic car. Few spare parts will likely be available, especially if it’s a rare model car, and those will be more expensive due to their rarity. Research the market for parts for your classic car before beginning the conversion to ensure they’re available and within your project’s budget.
While it may seem strange to some classic car owners, converting a vintage vehicle to an advanced EV includes many benefits. Embrace the beauty of the past with the technology of the future by turning your classic car into a lean, mean, electric machine!
