As emissions regulations tighten around the world, the pressure on automakers to introduce electric vehicles (EVs) has never been greater. But what about the existing fleet of gasoline and diesel cars on our roads? A German startup called e-Revolt, based in Dachau, has come up with a groundbreaking idea: convert traditional combustion engine cars into fully electric vehicles. While conversion processes are not entirely new, e-Revolt has streamlined the transformation, reducing it to an astonishing 8-hour procedure.
e-Revolt’s mission is to offer a sustainable solution for everyday vehicles. While many conversion companies focus on classic or high-end cars, e-Revolt aims to cater to a wider range of drivers. They recently demonstrated their capabilities by converting a Volkswagen Golf VII, which originally had a diesel engine, into a sleek electric vehicle.
This innovative approach could prove to be a game-changer for the circular economy, breathing new life into existing vehicles and making them more environmentally friendly. e-Revolt states that their conversion process is currently compatible with up to 42 different car models.
The Conversion Process: Cost and Implications
The electrification process, previously seen mainly in electric bicycles, is now making its way to cars, and e-Revolt has made it as convenient as any other standard workshop service. However, before you rush to convert your beloved car, you’ll need to crunch the numbers to see if it’s a worthwhile investment compared to purchasing a new electric vehicle. The conversion comes with a price tag ranging between 12,000 and 15,000 euros. While this isn’t a small sum, it’s important to consider it an investment in an existing vehicle. It’s worth noting that the car may already have other issues or limited remaining mileage, depending on its age and condition.
In 2023, truly budget-friendly electric cars remain scarce, making e-Revolt’s conversion an attractive proposition for eco-conscious individuals or those seeking to escape congestion zone restrictions but unable to afford a brand-new electric vehicle. Few native electric cars are currently available for less than 20,000 euros.
The e-Revolt Electric Conversion Kit
When it comes to range, e-Revolt claims that the converted vehicle will be able to cover 250 to 300 kilometers on a single charge. While this may not match the range of some dedicated electric cars, it’s a promising start, and battery technology continues to evolve, leaving room for improvement.
The conversion kit offered by e-Revolt is modular, allowing for future battery upgrades when enhanced technology becomes available. The conversion process kicks off with a thorough assessment of the vehicle to ensure its eligibility for the electric transformation. Subsequently, the gasoline or diesel engine is removed, along with any superfluous components. Importantly, e-Revolt is committed to recycling or reusing old parts, minimizing waste.
After creating space in the engine bay, e-Revolt installs a “plug and play frame” designed to interface seamlessly with the original mounting points meant for the combustion engine. An e-CAN (controller area network) module is also integrated to ensure flawless communication between the new electric components and the car’s original systems.
e-Revolt provides all the necessary components for the conversion, including sleeves and screws. They also add a new infotainment-like setup above the dashboard, providing comprehensive information about the EV-related aspects of the vehicle.
In summary, e-Revolt’s swift and efficient conversion process opens up exciting possibilities for transforming conventional combustion engine cars into eco-friendly electric vehicles. While the initial cost should be carefully considered, this innovative approach presents a practical and sustainable solution for individuals seeking to embrace electric mobility without saying goodbye to their trusted vehicles. The conversion process is not only an eco-conscious choice but also a way to extend the life and utility of existing cars in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.