I’m just starting my research about EV conversions and was hoping to get some advice on if there are any particular models and makes that lend themselves best to an EV conversion? (Like a 1960/70s MG maybe……)?

  • ClassyCrusader117@alien.topB
    link
    fedilink
    English
    arrow-up
    1
    ·
    10 months ago

    Anything with a drag coefficient below .31, .31 should be the max you go or you start losing major mileage from drag, maybe .32, that and transaxles rule but can still get away with regular transmission. If I wanted to do it cheap I always thought of a 90’s ford thunderbird since you use to get a good one under 900 bucks, had good drag, suspension, and the heavy v8 meant replacing them with batteries wouldn’t make a difference to handling. I want to do a g35 though cause the drag is about the same as a first model Tesla, having a little trouble figuring out where to put batteries for even weight distribution to not mess with the handling though. People also pick 944’s or mr2’s (I’d smooth over the flat rear end though, it was designed to create drag for more grip at higher speeds, good for racing in petrol, bad for driving with electric). Also a e39 6 cyl have great drag coefficient, that was my original choice (you can look up a conversion called e39 phoenix that went farther than a Tesla, they used the interior for batteries so it’s kind of cheating in my book but they did it) zLot of people choose fwd cars cause of the transaxle but drag is key too.

    • NorwegianCollusion@alien.topB
      link
      fedilink
      English
      arrow-up
      1
      ·
      10 months ago

      90s thunderbird is interesting for sure. The biggest engine weighs about the same as a 40kWh Leaf battery, and the fuel tank weighs about the same as an EV motor, so it’s plausible to get an end result not too different from stock. IRS means much easier to to a Tesla swap as well.