# EV Conversion Reality Check - Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2009/01/ev-conversion-a-diy-guide-to-going-green/ - Published: 2009-01-06T13:30:00-05:00 - Author: greenlivingguy #### Electrify Your Ride: Top Tips for a Successful DIY EV Conversion Hey there, eco-enthusiasts and DIY warriors! It’s your Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman, back with an electrifying topic that’s sure to get your motors running. Now more of what you read today is in my book [Build Your Own Electric Vehicle, 2nd edition](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004XIN8VS?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzetsenerg-20&creativeASIN=B004XIN8VS&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.2NH9A2MW5EUSW). Yet today, we’re diving into the world of DIY electric vehicle (EV) conversion. This was also inspired by the wisdom of Mark Hazen from his 2009 article. So, buckle up and get ready to supercharge your knowledge! ### Why Convert to Electric? Before we jump into the [nitty-gritty](https://greenlivingguy.com/2009/10/electric-car-conversions-the-benefits-for-you-source-mother-earth-news/), let’s talk about why you might want to tackle an EV conversion: 1. Reduce your carbon footprint 2. Save money on fuel and maintenance 3. Breathe new life into a classic car 4. Join the cutting-edge of automotive technology 5. Gain valuable skills and knowledge Now, let’s get to those top tips that’ll help you navigate your EV conversion journey like a pro! ![High resolution photo of electrogenics in house ev components including a custom ecu controller printed circuit board digital dashboard and bespoke charging module]( https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/0812BE27-B4DA-45DC- AE44-C5642C4DDF6E.png?resize=780%2C520&quality=50&ssl=1 "0812BE27-B4DA-45DC-AE44- C5642C4DDF6E - The Green Living Guy") Electrogenics bespoke technologyfrom ECU controllers to digital dashboardsreflects its philosophy of designing components when the perfect part isnt available #### 1. Choose Your Donor Car Wisely The foundation of a successful EV conversion is selecting the right donor car. Here’s what to look for: 1. Lightweight vehicles (think compact cars or small trucks) 2. Good condition body and frame 3. Manual transmission (easier to adapt to electric motors) 4. A car that needs engine work (you’ll be removing it anyway!) Pro Tip: As I mentioned in my related article, “How I Told Everyone You Can Sell Unused Engine Parts from that Electric Vehicle (EV) Conversion,” a great donor car is one that needs expensive engine repairs. This way, you can offset some of your conversion costs by selling the old engine parts! ![Build Your Own Electric Vehicle](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/ uploads/2009/10/image7.jpg?resize=140%2C175&quality=52&ssl=1 "EV conversion, build your own electric vehicle ") Build Your Own Electric Vehicle, 2nd Edition ### 2. Plan, Plan, and Plan Some More Before you start ripping out engines, take the time to: 1. Research EV conversion kits and components 2. Calculate your desired range and performance 3. Create a detailed budget 4. Draw up a step-by-step conversion plan 5. Gather all necessary tools and equipment ![Electrogenic ev conversion](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/ 2022/10/IMG_5409.jpeg?resize=780%2C1038&quality=52&ssl=1 "Electrogenic EV conversion- The Green Living Guy") Screenshot #### 3. Invest in Quality Components When it comes to EV conversions, [you get what you pay for](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/10/ev-conversion-electrogenic-classic-meets-modern/). Don’t skimp on these crucial components: 1. Electric motor 2. Battery pack 3. Motor controller 4. Charger 5. Battery Management System (BMS) #### 4. Safety First! Working with high-voltage systems is no joke. Prioritize safety by: 1. Wearing proper protective gear 2. Disconnecting the battery pack before working on the system 3. Using insulated tools 4. Having a fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires nearby #### 5. Don’t Forget the Little Things It’s easy to focus on the big components, but don’t overlook these important details: 1. Proper wire gauge and connections 2. Adequate cooling for the motor and controller 3. Vacuum pump for power brakes (if needed) 4. Power steering solution (electric pump or manual conversion) #### 6. Document Everything Keep a detailed log of your conversion process. This will help you troubleshoot issues and could be invaluable to others in the EV community. Plus, who knows? You might end up writing your own guide someday! ![High resolution photo of two electric vehicle motor controllers one with a red heat sink labeled axe 40 in the foreground and another black and silver unit in the background](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/ 8B203450-2BF3-43D5-BEAE-EB9EA0F47C8D.png?resize=780%2C520&quality=50&ssl=1 "8B203450- 2BF3-43D5-BEAE-EB9EA0F47C8D - The Green Living Guy") Modern EV motor controllers designed for precision power management and clean technology applications #### 7. Join the EV Community Connect with other DIY EV enthusiasts through: 1. Online forums and social media groups 2. Local EV clubs like mine as the Greater Hudson River Electric Vehicle Association 3. EV conversion workshops and events The support and knowledge you’ll gain from the community are priceless! ![Ford Focus electric car](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/ 2008/11/sany0331-e1592724364235.jpg?resize=146%2C110&quality=52&ssl=1 "Seth leitman, ford focus EV, build your own electric vehicle, EV conversion ") Green Living Guy with the book Build Your Own Electric Vehicle and the Ford Focus electric car #### 8. Consider Efficiency Upgrades While you’re converting, why not go the extra mile? Consider: 1. LED lighting 2. Low rolling resistance tires 3. Aerodynamic improvements Speaking of efficiency, did you know that solar technology is making incredible strides? As I mentioned in the related article about LONGi Solar’s world record, [solar cell efficiency](https://greenlivingguy.com/2023/07/solar-cell-efficiency-future-advancements-innovations/) is reaching new heights. While it might not be practical for powering your entire EV conversion, solar panels could be a great addition for trickle charging or running auxiliary systems! #### 9. Be Patient and Persistent Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is an EV conversion. Take your time, enjoy the process, and don’t get discouraged by setbacks. The end result will be worth it! #### 10. Spread the Word! Once you’ve completed your conversion, share your experience! Inspire others to join the EV revolution. Who knows? You might even end up like [Shane Snipes](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/09/green-living-guy-ustream-video-interview-with-shane-snipes-on-the-sustainable1000/), featured in my UStream interview, making a real impact in the world of sustainability and technology! ### Conclusion Embarking on a DIY EV conversion is a challenging but incredibly rewarding journey. It’s a fantastic way to combine your love for cars, technology, and the environment. With these tips in your toolkit, you’re well on your way to creating your very own electric dream machine. Remember, every EV on the road, whether converted or factory-built, is a step towards a cleaner, greener future. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get out there and electrify your ride! Stay green, stay curious, and keep innovating! Your Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman #DIYEVConversion #ElectricVehicles #GreenLiving #Sustainability #AutomotiveInnovation ## Original Blog Post By Mark Hazen Dec/Jan 2009 (#128) pp. 58-62 Top tips to get you prepared to tackle a DIY electric vehicle conversion. ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/df91669667126e1290c21ee0342c386e2da19d588d4d9ca6560bd82ed59a9641? s=300&d=monsterid&r=g) greenlivingguy The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author, Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle by Seth Leitman # Build Your Own Electric Motorcycle by Carl Vogel # Green Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke # Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power System by Brian Clark Howard and Kevin Shea # and more green living books to follow. [See Full Bio](https://greenlivingguy.com/author/greenlivingguy/) [ ](https://greenlivingguy.com/author/greenlivingguy/)