Many people love the look of classic cars, but classic cars have not historically been the most energy-efficient choices on the market. That is changing, however, as people are modernizing their vehicles by replacing the traditional gasoline or diesel engines with electric engines instead to improve fuel economy, reduce gas expenses, and have an overall more environmentally friendly car.

How are Classic Cars Made Electric?

The process of turning a classic car into a vehicle that runs on electricity is called “electro modding.” The practice is becoming more popular as people want to keep their classic cars running but also drive a vehicle that is more efficient and doesn't produce harsh fumes. Modernizing a classic car by converting to electricity for power is also key in some places where the vehicles may not otherwise pass current emissions standards.

A Recent Innovation

Swapping out old engines for electric-based motors is a fairly recent phenomenon among classic car enthusiasts. The trend has only gained traction in the past few years, as more people have discovered the advantages of converting from a gasoline-powered vehicle to an electric-powered car instead. Ultimately, replacing the original gasoline engine on a classic car with an electrical motor is a means of hot-rodding a classic car.

How are Engine Modifications Made?

Using either personal expertise or assistance from the pros, classic car owners are changing their gasoline-powered classic cars to electric-powered machines. Vehicle owners are replacing their regular gasoline engines with electric motors that are smaller than gasoline engines but provide a substantial amount of power. The electric motors in classic cars, much like those in today's hybrid vehicles, work in tandem with a lithium-ion battery to power the vehicle.

How Much do Engine Modifications Cost?

Currently, the cost of switching over from a gasoline-powered car to an electric-powered vehicle is not cheap. In Australia, the average cost of swapping out a regular engine on a classic car with an electrical motor system is about $30,000. The components used for the project make a significant difference in overall cost. Car owners who can find and use components from other vehicles that are otherwise totaled or no longer working can greatly reduce the overall cost of converting to an electric vehicle. Of all the components required for an electric conversion, the batteries are generally one of the most expensive parts. Generally, auto industry experts say that performing a quality conversion on a classic car will cost the driver about as much money as the price tag of a new electric-powered car. However, the good news is that with a new engine and mechanical components, a classic car will last for a long time with proper maintenance and in the absence of any other problems.

Ideal Cars for Conversion

There are many kinds of cars on the road, and some are easier to convert than others. Various factors determine a car's likelihood of success if you are trying to switch from a gasoline engine to an electric-powered mechanical system. Vehicles with a heavy chassis require more power to run, which means they will need a larger battery pack and electric motor. While it's possible to convert a heavier car, a lighter-weight vehicle is a better option, and it will cost less as well. Cars that were made in the 1980s and 1990s tend to be the best candidates for converting to electricity for power.

Changing a classic car from a gasoline-powered vehicle to an electric car takes time and can be a bit pricey, but the result is worth the effort. Kurz Industrial is here to explain all about switching your vehicle over to a new source of power.