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Electric vehicles (EVs) are the future of transportation. But many car lovers find themselves torn between their passion for vintage vehicles and the desire for modern performance. EV conversion companies offer a solution. They transform classic cars into electric powerhouses. They outperform their original specs with faster acceleration and better handling.
In this article, we have listed some of the best EV conversion companies that can transform your classic cars into modern beasts!
What is EV Conversion?
EV conversion is replacing a car’s internal combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor and battery pack. By this process, you can preserve the car’s classic looks while upgrading its performance.
Why Convert to Electric?
Converting classic cars to electric offers several benefits:
- Enhanced performance
- Lower running costs
- Environmental friendliness
- Preservation of classic designs
- Reduced maintenance needs
Top EV Conversion Companies
Let’s explore some of the best companies leading the charge in EV conversions:
1. Lunaz
Founded: 2018
Location: Silverstone, UK
Founder: David Lorenz
Website: https://lunaz.design/
Lunaz has rapidly become a leader in the luxury EV conversion market. Named after Lorenz’s daughter Luna, the company embodies a vision of clean-air powertrains for future generations.
Company Philosophy: Lunaz aims to preserve the most beautiful cars in history by making them relevant to a new generation. They believe in upcycling rather than scrapping, combining classic beauty with modern technology.
Notable Achievements:
- Partnered with Silverstone Technology Cluster for access to Formula 1 engineering expertise
- Secured investment from David Beckham in 2021, joining existing investors like the Reuben and Barclay families
- Expanded into commercial vehicle electrification with Lunaz Applied Technologies in 2021
Unique Aspects:
- Uses proprietary modular electric powertrains
- Offers a “buy-back” guarantee, promising to buy back converted vehicles at the price customers paid
- Employs a team of craftspeople specializing in traditional coachbuilding techniques
Future Plans:
Lunaz is expanding its production capacity to meet growing demand, with plans to convert up to 110 vehicles per year by 2024.
2. EV West
Founded: 2010
Location: San Marcos, California, USA
Founder: Michael Bream
Website: https://www.evwest.com
EV West started as a passion project in Bream’s garage and has grown into one of the most influential companies in the EV conversion space.
Company Philosophy: EV West believes in making EV technology accessible to enthusiasts. They aim to prove that electric vehicles can be fun, fast, and appealing to traditional car lovers.
Notable Achievements:
- Set multiple electric vehicle racing records, including at Pikes Peak and Bonneville Salt Flats
- Developed a robust online store, becoming a go-to supplier for DIY EV converters worldwide
- Featured in numerous TV shows and documentaries about EV conversion
Unique Aspects:
- Offers both complete conversions and DIY kits
- Hosts regular workshops and educational events for EV enthusiasts
- Maintains an active YouTube channel showcasing their projects and providing technical advice
Future Plans:
EV West continues to expand its product line and is working on developing more plug-and-play conversion systems for popular classic car models.
3. Electric Classic Cars
Founded: 2015
Location: Newtown, Wales, UK
Founder: Richard Morgan
Website: https://www.electricclassiccars.co.uk/
Electric Classic Cars has gained international recognition through its popular YouTube channel, which documents the conversion process in detail.
Company Philosophy: The company aims to preserve classic cars by making them usable in a modern, environmentally conscious world. They believe in maintaining the character of classic cars while improving their reliability and performance.
Notable Achievements:
- Featured in multiple TV shows, including Fully Charged and Fifth Gear
- Converted a wide range of vehicles, from everyday classics to rare sports cars
- Built a global following through their YouTube channel, with over 100,000 subscribers
Unique Aspects:
- Offers a “Drive-In, Drive-Out” service where customers can use their converted car to drive to and from the workshop
- Provides detailed documentation of conversion processes, contributing to the wider EV community
- Collaborates with other companies to develop new EV conversion technologies
Future Plans:
Electric Classic Cars is expanding its workshop space to meet increasing demand and is exploring partnerships with classic car manufacturers for official conversion programs.
4. Zelectric Motors
Founded: 2012
Location: San Diego, California, USA
Founders: David Benardo and Bonnie Rodgers
Website: https://www.zelectricmotors.com
Zelectric Motors specializes in converting air-cooled Volkswagens and Porsches, focusing on maintaining the original driving experience while upgrading performance.
Company Philosophy: Zelectric believes in preserving the unique characteristics of classic air-cooled cars while making them more reliable and environmentally friendly.
Notable Achievements:
- Featured in major automotive publications like Road & Track and Autoweek
- Collaborated with notable figures in the automotive world, including Singer Vehicle Design
- Developed a loyal following among air-cooled VW and Porsche enthusiasts
Unique Aspects:
- Retains original transmissions in most conversions for an authentic driving feel
- Uses a blend of classic and modern components to maintain period-correct aesthetics
- Offers ongoing support and upgrades for converted vehicles
Future Plans:
Zelectric is working on developing more powerful drivetrain options and exploring conversions for additional classic car models beyond VW and Porsche.
Source: Everrati
5. Everrati
Founded: 2019
Location: Upper Heyford, Oxfordshire, UK
Founders: Justin Lunny and Nick Williams
Website: https://everrati.com
Everrati focuses on high-performance classic car conversions, particularly iconic sports cars from the 1950s to 1990s.
Company Philosophy: Everrati aims to redefine and futureproof automotive icons by combining classic aesthetics with advanced EV technology. They believe in preserving driving enjoyment while embracing sustainable technology.
Notable Achievements:
- Partnered with Gulf Oil International for the exclusive use of the iconic Gulf livery
- Developed a proprietary electric powertrain that can be integrated into various classic models
- received significant media attention for their Porsche 911 (964) conversions
Unique Aspects:
- Uses aerospace-grade carbon fiber components to offset battery weight
- Offers “redefined” interiors with sustainable, modern materials
- Provides over-the-air updates for vehicle software and performance
Future Plans:
Everrati is expanding its range of vehicle offerings and exploring partnerships with luxury car manufacturers for officially sanctioned conversions.
6. Zero Labs
Founded: 2015
Location: Los Angeles, California, USA
Founder: Adam Roe
Website: https://www.zerolabs.com
Zero Labs has made a name for itself by focusing on modernizing classic SUVs and trucks, particularly the Ford Bronco and Land Rover Series III.
Company Philosophy: Zero Labs aims to preserve the soul of classic vehicles while upgrading them with modern electric technology and luxury features. They believe in blending timeless design with cutting-edge performance.
Notable Achievements:
- Developed a proprietary electric platform that can be adapted to various classic vehicle models
- Gained significant media attention for their electric Ford Bronco, which retains the original’s iconic design
- Successfully expanded their offering to include the Land Rover Series III
Unique Aspects:
- Uses aerospace-grade carbon fiber bodies to reduce weight
- Offers customizable interior options with sustainable materials
- Provides over-the-air updates for continuous vehicle improvement
Future Plans:
Zero Labs is working on expanding its vehicle lineup and exploring partnerships with other classic car manufacturers.
7. ARC Motors
Founded: 2017
Location: Oxfordshire, UK
Founder: Ant Anstead
Website: https://www.arcmotors.com
ARC Motors specializes in high-performance EV conversions of classic British sports cars.
Company Philosophy: ARC Motors aims to preserve the spirit and driving experience of classic sports cars while enhancing their performance through electric conversion.
Notable Achievements:
- Developed a proprietary electric powertrain specifically for classic British sports cars
- Gained attention for their electric Jaguar E-Type conversions
- Featured on various automotive TV shows and publications
Unique Aspects:
- Focuses on maintaining the driving characteristics of classic British sports cars
- Offers both complete conversions and conversion kits for DIY enthusiasts
- Provides ongoing support and upgrades for converted vehicles
Future Plans:
ARC Motors is expanding its range of compatible classic models and developing more powerful drivetrain options to further enhance performance.
8. Electric GT
Founded: 2014
Location: Huntington Beach, California, USA
Founders: Eric Hutchison and Brock Winberg
Website: https://electricgt.com
Electric GT is known for complete conversions and innovative “crate motor” systems for DIY projects.
Company Philosophy: Electric GT aims to make EV conversion more accessible to enthusiasts while pushing the boundaries of electric performance in classic vehicles.
Notable Achievements:
- Developed the “e-Crate” motor system, a plug-and-play solution for EV conversions
- Gained attention for their Ferrari 308 GTE conversion, which outperforms the original V8 version
- Featured in numerous automotive publications and TV shows
Unique Aspects:
- Offers both turnkey conversions and DIY solutions
- Focuses on high-performance conversions that often exceed original vehicle specifications
- Provides ongoing support and upgrades for their conversion systems
Future Plans:
Electric GT is working on expanding their e-Crate motor lineup and developing more plug-and-play conversion solutions for popular classic car models.
9. Electrogenic
Founded: 2018
Location: Oxford, UK
Founders: Steve Drummond and Ian Newstead
Website: https://www.electrogenic.co.uk
Electrogenic specializes in bespoke classic car conversions, focusing on British and European classics.
Company Philosophy: Electrogenic aims to combine the charm of classic cars with the benefits of modern electric technology, ensuring these vehicles can be enjoyed for generations to come.
Notable Achievements:
- Converted a wide range of classic British cars, including Jaguar, Morgan, and Triumph models
- Developed a reputation for maintaining the original character of vehicles while improving performance
- Featured in several UK automotive shows and publications
Unique Aspects:
- Offers tailored conversion solutions based on each client’s specific requirements
- Provides “invisible” conversions that maintain the original look and feel of the vehicle
- Focuses on improving vehicle reliability alongside the electric conversion
Future Plans:
Electrogenic is expanding its workshop capacity and developing more standardized conversion options for popular British classic models.
10. Transition One
Founded: 2019
Location: Orleans, France
Founder: Aymeric Libeau
Website: http://www.transition-one.eu/
Transition One aims to make EV conversions more accessible by focusing on popular, everyday cars.
Company Philosophy: Transition One believes in democratizing EV conversion, making it an affordable option for owners of common car models who want to switch to electric.
Notable Achievements:
- Developed a standardized conversion process for popular small car models
- Secured funding from the French government to support their accessible conversion initiative
- Gained attention for their affordable approach to EV conversion
Unique Aspects:
- Focuses on converting popular, mass-market car models
- Aims to complete conversions within a day, minimizing inconvenience for car owners
- Offers one of the most affordable EV conversion options in the market
Future Plans:
Transition One is working on expanding their range of compatible vehicle models. They are also establishing partnerships with car manufacturers for officially approved conversions.
Conclusion
EV conversion companies are revolutionizing the classic car world. These firms offer enthusiasts an opportunity to experience their vintage cars with modern power and reliability. As technology advances and more companies enter the market, we can expect EV conversions to become more accessible and increasingly high-performing.
By choosing a reputable EV conversion company, you can enjoy the best of both worlds. The iconic styling of a classic combined with the instant torque, improved handling, and consistent power delivery of modern electric drivetrains.
Owner’s Picks · Affiliate Links
The Conversion-Curious Toolkit
Thinking about a conversion of your own, or keeping a classic alive while you save up? A proper multimeter is non-negotiable around high-voltage work, and the Fluke 117 (4.8 stars from over 5,000 owners) is the one professionals reach for. And since project cars spend more time parked than driven, a NOCO GENIUS10 smart maintainer keeps the 12V system from dying between wrench sessions.