I wrote a story a while back about my book Build Your Own Electric Vehicle about the first few questions people should ask themselves when building that electric vehicle.
Here is a small segment of that article:

Many people convert their own vehicle to electric. While it requires the least amount of money it does require 150-300 hours. There are a number of advantages to doing your own conversion:
However the bottom line is that you have control of the project (the converted vehicle and the components selected); second, you have the ability to diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair any problems quickly.
This was part of the Build Your Own Electric Vehicle campaign that I started. However, given the oil spill and people’s fears about oil and the necessity of electric cars, I will probably be expanding my efforts into communicating about electric vehicles in the future. Stay tuned!!
Build Your Own Electric Vehicle: Key Questions to Ask
The DIY Electric Vehicle Revolution
Many people are taking the plunge and converting their own vehicles to electric. While this approach requires the least amount of money, it does demand a significant investment of time—typically between 150 to 300 hours. However, the benefits of doing your own conversion are numerous and compelling.
Advantages of DIY Conversion
First and foremost, you have complete control over the project. This means you can select the components that best suit your needs and preferences. Additionally, having hands-on experience with the conversion process equips you with the skills to diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair any issues that may arise quickly and efficiently.
Cost-Effective and Practical
In the real world, where time is money, converting an existing internal combustion engine vehicle to electric can save you a substantial amount of capital investment and labor. By starting with a late-model vehicle, you benefit from a pre-existing structure that includes the body, interior, and other essential components. This makes the conversion process more straightforward and cost-effective.
Industry Innovations
Exciting developments are happening in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. For instance, AC Propulsion, a significant influencer in EV technology, has partnered with AutoPort to create a groundbreaking conversion program for the United States Postal Service. This initiative aims to convert 142,000 Long Life Vehicles (LLVs) to electric, marking a significant step forward in sustainable transportation.
The Green Living Guy’s Mission
As an electric green living expert, actor, best-selling author, podcast and TV host, expert speaker, and consultant, I am committed to sharing my knowledge and passion for electric vehicles, green living, sustainability, and renewable energy microgrids. Given the recent oil spill and growing concerns about oil dependency, I will be expanding my efforts to communicate the importance and benefits of electric vehicles.
Stay Tuned for More
Stay tuned for more updates, insights, and exciting developments in the world of electric vehicles. Together, we can drive towards a greener, more sustainable future.
Stay green, stay informed, and stay inspired!


I don’t think I would ever build my own electric vehicle, but there may be a Tesla Roadster in my future. 🙂