Converting to Electric A Beginner s Guide to EV Conversion Projects

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated December 20, 2024

Contributions sourced from

A guide to converting your old car to electric

Converting a conventionally powered car to run on electricity alone is a bit of a hot-button topic right now.

Ever since Harry and Meghan headed off on their honeymoon in an electrified Jaguar E-Type, the idea of converting older cars to EVs (electric vehicles) has gained popularity. Actually, the electric car conversion industry was a thing long before the royal connection, but suddenly the idea of classic cars being converted to electric power was hitting the front pages.

But whats involved in an electric car conversion in Australia and how do you go about it? We asked Tim Harrison of Charged Garage on Brisbanes south-side for the beginners guide to the process. Then we asked him why on earth people would modify a car in this way.

It turns out that there are many valid reasons to convert a car to electric in Australia, starting with the fact that its a method of extending the life of an older car. Tim reckons the ideal car to convert is something thats older and simpler, as more modern cars have much more complex systems that make the conversion more difficult, more complicated and more expensive. Also, when you can now buy a second-hand Nissan Leaf for comfortably less than $20,000, the conversion no longer makes hard financial sense.

The dollars just dont stack up any more, Mr Harrison admits. Maybe 10 years ago when you couldnt buy a Nissan Leaf, it did, but these days it only makes sense to put the time, effort and money into a classic car or something with sentimental value.

So why do it?

Its a great idea if you want to keep a certain type of classic car on the road. You make it more enjoyable to drive, more reliable, extremely low maintenance and you often get a huge increase in performance. Youll also often make the car safer because the regenerative braking of an EV makes a huge difference to the braking performance of some older cars.

What car?

Air-cooled VWs are a popular candidate for conversion.

Theres really no such thing as a car that cant be EV converted, and Tim has seen everything from a Mini to a Land Rover off-roader successfully converted. Air-cooled Volkswagens (Beetles and Kombis) are prime candidates for conversion, because they feature a flat floor, which makes packaging the batteries easier, and a transaxle transmission which is easily adaptable to the new electric motor. Also, because they were such low-powered vehicles to begin with, the conversion gives a huge increase in performance.

Tim reckons, generally speaking, lighter cars are better, as keeping weight under control is a factor when youre adding hundreds of kilograms of batteries to the equation.

How to build an electric car

The battery pack and controller now lives in the old fuel tank.

The basic components of the electric vehicle conversion are the electric motor, the battery pack and the controller which is more or less the brain that oversees the systems operation including the regenerative braking. You also need to add charge points, a cooling system for the batteries and the necessary cabling. You might also find depending on the car involved that you need to re-engineer some aspects of the vehicles systems including the brake-booster, speedometer drive, and heating and air-conditioning system.

On the flip-side, youll be ditching the cars original engine, fuel system (gas/petrol tank, filler and fuel lines) and, in some cases, even the manual gearbox or automatic transmission as the electric motor can be attached directly to the drive axle. Even so, the finished, converted car will still be heavier than it originally was, as those batteries are awfully hefty.

Can I do it at home?

Electric motor replaces original engine in the standard position.

In a word, yes. Tim says that there are companies both here and overseas who can sell you all the bits and pieces needed to make your DIY EV a reality, effectively an electric car conversion kit.

There are a number of suppliers who provide kits which will give you a basic package to start with. There are also companies making complete, bolt-in kits for specific makes and models, he said.

In the case of a general-purpose kit, youll probably find theres still some custom engineering work to be done in terms of physically mating the electric motor to the car. Batteries are the other thing youll need to find, and you can either buy them brand new or get creative and find a Tesla that has been written-off in a crash and use the batteries from that. Its more common than you might think, although youll be competing with home-owners who want the batteries for their home solar-power set-up.

Are the cars safe?

Absolutely, and before you can hit the road in your newly converted EV, you need to have the conversion signed-off by an approved engineer who will check that everything is done properly and according to the letter of the law. Theres an online guide that gives you the basics and details how things must be done to satisfy your consulting engineer.

Youll find the relevant documents here:National Code of Practice for Light Vehicle Construction and Modification (NCOP)

Beyond that, the car must incorporate cut-off and safety switches to protect its various systems and every electrical cable that carries high voltage must be coloured bright orange to identify it as such.

In a dynamic sense, the converted car is heavier than before, but it should also, thanks to that regenerative braking, have much better stopping abilities. It will also be anything up to three times faster than it was before, but thats a matter for the driver to consider.

Whats it cost?

This is the original piece-of-string question, because how much you spend will vary according to how much work you do yourself and what level of performance and driving range youre happy with. Tim reckons the most basic conversion on a simple car would easily cost between $15,000 and $20,000 (plus the cost of the car, of course), and the skys the limit from there.

Sticking with a car that is small and light will help, he said. But a good, high-performance conversion on a classic car with, say, a 200km range could be around the $30,000 mark. But, youre probably doubling or tripling the performance of the car, and youll achieve very low if any ongoing maintenance costs. And if you recharge your car with renewable power from your own solar panels, then even thats free. Think of it as paying for all your car running costs in advance.

Introduction to EV Charging: A Beginners Guide

3 December 2023

Introduction to EV Charging: A Beginners Guide

As the world embraces the shift towards sustainable transportation, Electric Vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular. Central to the adoption of EVs is the infrastructure that supports them, particularly EV Charging. In this article, we will delve into the basics of EV charging and explore the different types of charging methods available.

What is EV Charging?

EV Charging is the process of replenishing the energy in the battery of an EV. Unlike traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, EVs rely on electricity as their primary source of energy. Charging an EV is a pivotal aspect of its functionality, determining the convenience and practicality of electric mobility.

Categories of EV Charging:

There are three primary categories of EV charging:

AC charging
DC charging
Wireless charging.

1. AC charging:

AC Charging refers to the process of charging, when EV is connected to an AC power source, which could be a standard socket or an AC charging station.There are four charging modes (combining AC and DC) based on how the EV is connected to the power source. Among them, Mode-1, 2, and 3 are for AC, and the Mode-4 is for DC.Lets delve into the details of the AC charging modes below:

1.1. Mode-1 Charging: (AC Charging)

Mode-1 charging is the simplest form, where the EV is directly plugged into a standard socket using an extension cord.

How it works:

EV is connected to the socket, and the On-Board Charger (OBC) detects the voltage.
OBC then converts AC to DC, charging the battery.

Pros:

No need for additional devices between EV and mains supply.

Cons:

EV lacks the information about sockets rating. If the EV attempts to draw a higher power than the socket rating, potentially due to the OBC in the EV being designed for a higher rating, it may pose a fire hazard by overheating the power socket.
Without a Residual Current Device (RCD) in the home, its impossible to detect phase or neutral-to-ground faults in EV during charging, posing an electric shock hazard.
Charging power must be kept at a minimum to prevent the overheating of socket.

Typical power level:

The typical maximum power is 1.0 kW to 2.3 kW (6 A-10 A, 230 V).

Applications:

Suitable for low-power EVs, such as electric scooters and electric bikes, where smaller battery capacities are used, and high charging power is not necessary.
This method is not used for electric cars or larger vehicles due to their higher battery capacities, demanding high power for overnight charging and also due to safety concerns.

1.2. Mode-2 Charging: (AC Charging)

In Mode 2 charging, the EV is connected to a standard socket (with an earth/ground connection) using a specialized cable equipped with an In-Cable Control and Protection Device (IC-CPD). Typically included with the purchase of the EV, these IC-CPDs are also readily available in the market.

Functions of IC-CPD include:

Validating the connection of the charging cable to the EV before supplying voltage.
Allowing users to choose the current limit based on the socket (8A, 10A, 12A, or 16A). Some IC-CPDs may have a fixed rating.
Communicating the current limit to the EV.
Monitoring phase or neutral-to-ground faults in the EV.
Monitoring the plug temperature connected to the socket.
Disconnecting the supply to the EV in the following situations:
- If the EV draws higher current than communicated.
- If a phase or neutral-to-ground fault is detected (for shock protection).
- If the plug temperature exceeds a certain limit.

How it works:

Once cable is connected to EV and socket, then IC-CPD communicates the current limits and its readiness to provide voltage.
EV communicates back when it is ready for charging.
IC-CPD provides the voltage to EV and OBC in the EV starts converting the AC to DC and charges the battery.

Pros:

Allows safe charging of EV.
Charging cable can be carried in the car, enabling charging at any domestic socket.
Smart IC-CPDs can provide the connection to mobile phone which allows to schedule charging and remote control of charging.

Cons:

Low power rating causing longer charging times.
Only supports single phase charging.
Not suitable for public places with limited parking time.

Typical power level:

The typical maximum power is 3.5 kW (16 A, 230 V).

Applications:

Ideal for short distance commuting EVs (city cars, Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles), making overnight charging sufficient to meet daily needs.
Practical for residential settings without dedicated charging infrastructure, and users can rely on standard electrical sockets for occasional charging.

Typical Mode-2 Charging setup in real world

1.3. Mode-3 Charging: (AC Charging)

In Mode-3 charging, the AC charging station is either hardwired to the AC mains or connected to an industrial socket that supports higher currents. This is the most preferred means of EV charging. Charging cable can be either permanently connected to charging station or it can be a detachable cable.

Functions of AC charging station include:

Validating the connection of the charging cable to the EV before supplying voltage.
Allowing users to choose the current limit.
Communicating the current limit to the EV.
Monitoring phase or neutral-to-ground faults in the EV.
Disconnecting the supply to the EV in the following situations:
- If the EV draws higher current than communicated.
- If a phase or neutral-to-ground fault is detected (for shock protection).

How it works:

Once cable is connected to EV, then AC charging station communicates the current limits and its readiness to provide voltage.
EV communicates back when it is ready for charging.
AC charging station provides the voltage to EV and OBC in the EV starts converting the AC to DC and charges the battery.

Pros:

Enables safe EV charging.
Supports high-power charging.
Supports three-phase charging.
Smart charging stations can connect to mobile phones, enabling scheduled charging and remote control (ideal for charging during off-peak hours).
Well-suited for public charging applications.

Cons:

Expensive compared to Mode-2.

Typical power level:

The typical maximum power is 7 kW to 11kW (32 A 48 A in single phase, 16 A per phase in three phase, 230 V). Some AC charging stations can support 19 kW.

Applications:

Ideal for EVs with higher battery capacities (long range Electric cars) that require high power charging.
Suitable for public charging stations, providing higher power for shorter charging times.

Typical Mode-3 Charging setup in real world

2. DC charging:

DC Charging refers to the process of charging, when EV is connected to a DC charging station.In continuation the modes mentioned above, DC charging falls under the Mode-4 category.

Lets explore the details of Mode-4 charging below:

2.1. Mode-4 Charging: (DC Charging)

In Mode-4 charging, the conversion from AC to DC takes place externally, within the DC charging station. This approach bypasses the EVs OBC, allowing the EV battery to be charged directly. These DC charging stations are permanently connected to the AC grid, with the charging cable also being permanently connected to the station.

Functions of DC charging station include:

AC to DC Conversion.
Validation of the charging cable connection to the EV before supplying power.
Communication of current, voltage, and power limits to the EV.
Providing the charging current and voltage in accordance with the EVs request.
Monitoring the isolation resistance of the DC power lines.
Stopping the charging process upon detection of faults, such as isolation faults in the DC power lines.

How it works:

Upon cable connection to the EV, the DC charging station communicates the current, voltage, and power limits, and its readiness to provide power.
The EV responds by communicating its limits and readiness for charging.
The DC charging station initiates the charging process.

Pros:

Enables safe EV charging.
Supports high-power (fast) charging.
Ideal for public charging applications.

Cons:

Very expensive infrastructure investment.

Typical power level:

For home applications: approximately 15 kW (500 V DC).
For public charging: ranging from 50 kW to 350 kW (500 V DC to 1000 V DC).

Applications:

Ideal for public charging stations (fast charging), offering higher power for shorter charging times.
While not common for home charging presently, it is gradually gaining popularity.

Typical Mode-4 Charging setup in real world

In addition to Mode-4 DC charging, another notable method of DC charging employs a pantograph, primarily utilized in public transport applications such as city buses. The charging process is similar to that of Mode-4 DC charging, with the key distinction being the contact made with the DC source through a pantograph rather than a conventional charging cable. Pantograph charging boasts a capacity of up to 1 MW, facilitating rapid charging for city buses, ensuring they are swiftly ready for their scheduled trips. This charging technique is commonly referred to as Opportunity Charging.

3. Wireless Charging:

Wireless charging is the process of transferring electric energy from a charging station to an EV without the need for physical cables. This technique, commonly known as inductive charging or wireless power transfer, relies on electromagnetic fields to transmit energy between two key components: a charging pad (or plate) installed on the ground and a receiver coil integrated into the electric vehicle.

How it works:

When the EV is parked on the charging pad and properly aligned, the EV and charging station exchange the information, including current, voltage, power limits, and their readiness to provide power. This communication occurs wirelessly.
Charging initiation is performed by the charging station, generating the necessary high-frequency AC electromagnetic fields (from charging pad) for wireless power transfer.
The AC electromagnetic field induces voltage in the receiver coil on the underside of the EV. Subsequently, the OBC in the EV converts the AC to DC, effectively charging the vehicles battery.

Pros:

Wireless charging eliminates the need for cable plugging and unplugging, offering a hassle-free charging experience and increased user convenience.

Cons:

It is less efficient than traditional wired charging, making it less suitable for high-power charging.
The infrastructure for wireless charging tends to be more expensive than traditional charging setups.

Typical power level:

The typical maximum power is 20 kW.

Applications:

Wireless charging is suitable for locations such as taxi stands and bus stations, where vehicles often wait for passengers.
Wireless charging has not yet gained widespread popularity primarily due to its lower charging power capabilities.

In closing, the landscape of EV charging is dynamic and transformative. As technology advances and the world accelerates towards a cleaner future, the ways we charge our EVs will continue to evolve. From the simplicity of Mode-1 charging to the sophistication of wireless charging, each method serves a purpose in meeting the diverse needs of EV users.Embracing these charging technologies is not just about convenience; its a collective step towards reducing our carbon footprint and creating a sustainable future. As charging infrastructure expands, and innovations emerge, the journey towards electric mobility becomes more accessible and appealing.

Amar Reddy, a seasoned professional in EV Charging with more than a decade of expertise in the Electric Vehicles domain. With a Masters degree in Electrical Engineering, he is eager to share valuable insights into EV charging, catering to enthusiasts and fostering a deeper understanding of the field.

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