Classic cars modified to work with electric motors are becoming more common in today’s automotive landscape. While most of these conversions utilize battery packs, there has yet to be a conversion with fuel cells. Models such as the Mini, Jaguar E-Type, Porsche 911, and now the DMC DeLorean have all received electric kits, with the assurance that these changes are fully reversible to appease classic car purists.
The concept of converting classic cars to electric power may seem counterintuitive at first. After all, why would a vehicle powered by electricity need to be converted to electric power? The answer lies in the history of automobiles, where some of the very first vehicles were powered by electric motors. In the early days of automotive technology, it was easier and safer to get electric cars running compared to their internal combustion engine counterparts, which often required dangerous crank levers to start. This led to the proliferation of electric cars in the early 20th century, with models like the Detroit Electric offering a range of 80 miles on lead-acid battery packs.
However, as Charles Kettering’s invention of the electric starter made internal combustion engine vehicles more accessible to the masses, electric cars began to fade into obscurity. Many early electric car manufacturers ceased production, leaving existing electric vehicles without official support. This lack of maintenance and replacement parts led to the decline of classic electric cars, as their battery packs deteriorated and became obsolete.
In contrast, classic internal combustion engine vehicles have survived in higher numbers due to the relative ease of replacing components such as hoses, cables, and batteries. The powertrain of these vehicles, which is often the most expensive component, remained intact, allowing them to be restored and brought back to running condition. In comparison, classic electric cars faced challenges with battery degradation and the lack of replacement parts, leading to their decline over time.
The issue of battery degradation in electric vehicles is still prevalent today, as demonstrated by the discovery of three Tesla Roadsters in containers in Shanghai after 13 years of storage. The battery packs in these vehicles had degraded beyond repair, highlighting the challenges of maintaining classic electric cars with outdated technology. The cost of replacing these battery packs can be significant, making it a financial burden for owners looking to restore these vehicles to working condition.
To address the longevity and sustainability of electric vehicles, manufacturers must develop battery packs that can last for decades or make them easily replaceable. Swappable batteries or affordable replacement components could help extend the lifespan of electric vehicles and make them more viable for long-term ownership. Without these solutions, electric vehicles risk becoming disposable commodities, with limited longevity and high depreciation rates.
In conclusion, the conversion of classic cars to electric power presents unique challenges and opportunities for preserving automotive history. While modern technology has made electric conversions more feasible, the longevity of these vehicles depends on the durability and accessibility of their battery packs. By addressing these issues, manufacturers can ensure that classic electric cars have a lasting legacy in the automotive world.