Here’s a book excerpt on electric vehicle conversions. In the real world, where time is money, converting an existing internal combustion engine vehicle to an electric vehicle not only saves money in terms of large capital investment but also optimizes operational efficiency by reducing long-term fuel costs. Additionally, this process saves a significant amount of labor, minimizing the resources needed for maintenance and repairs common with traditional engines. In fact, electric vehicle conversions are becoming increasingly popular for this reason, as more individuals and businesses recognize the environmental benefits and the potential for tax incentives associated with eco-friendly alternatives. Furthermore, the advancements in battery technology and electric drivetrains have made these conversions more feasible and appealing, allowing for a smoother transition that can extend the lifespan of older vehicles while contributing to sustainability efforts.
Starting with a late-model vehicle offers advantages for EV converters. The existing structure includes the body, chassis, suspension, steering, and braking systems. These components work together seamlessly. They undergo design, development, testing, and safety validation. Consequently, electric vehicle conversions leverage these features. This approach simplifies the entire process.
Electric Vehicle Conversions
Provided the converted electric vehicle does not greatly exceed the original vehicle’s (gross vehicle weight requirement) GVWR or GAWR (weight per axle specifications), all systems will continue to deliver their previous performance, stability and handling characteristics.
Additionally, the EV converter inherits another body bonus. Its bumpers, lights, safety-glazed windows, etc. They are already pre-approved and tested to meet all safety requirements. There’s still another benefit; which is you save more money. Automobile junkyards make money by buying the whole car (truck, van, etc) and selling it off as pieces. Essentially for more than they paid for the car. Importantly, electric vehicle conversions do not just save money, but also help reduce waste by reusing existing vehicles.
When you build (rather than convert) an EV, you are on the other side of the fence. Unless you bought a complete kit, building from scratch means buying chassis tubing, angle braces, and sheet rock plus axles/suspension, brakes, steering, gauges, instruments, dashboard/interior trim/upholstery, etc. These are parts that are bound to cost you more a la carte than buying them already manufactured and installed in a completed vehicle. Therefore, electric vehicle conversions offer a practical solution to costly new builds.
Source
My book with TAB McGraw-Hill, Build Your Own Electric Vehicle
