Electric Crate Engines: Transforming Classic Cars into Modern EVs
by AutoExpert | 30 April, 2024
So, those electric motor "crate engines" are a thing now. You know, pop one in and your grandpa's old ride runs on batteries! Sounds weird, but it's actually gaining steam:
- Why Do This? Easier to fix than old clunkers, cleaner, and some companies say electric motors give ridiculous power.
- City Slickers LOVE This: Europe's got those "no gas cars" zones popping up, so this might be the only way to save some classics soon.
- Big Names Are In: Even Volkswagen's making electric conversion kits for old Beetles – factory-approved weirdness! Aston Martin and Jag are doing it too, but those are outta most people's price range.
The Big Debate: Worth It, or Ruining History?
Purists are up in arms. They say once you go electric, the car's not a "true" classic anymore. But the other side says:
- If It Works, Who Cares? VW kits mean the BRAND is making your car electric. That's gotta count for something, right?
- Better Than Rotting: If electric gets a dead classic cruising again, isn't that better than watching it rust away?
Okay, But What About the CASH?
This ain't cheap. Some places charge $100K to do the swap! Most folks doing it care more about the driving than worrying about resale value... kinda like a modern hot-rod project.
Bottom Line: It's Happening
Love it or hate it, electric classics are coming. Who knows, maybe your kid will inherit that old gas guzzler and trade the engine for a battery pack!