Every vehicle conversion involves removing the vehicle’s internal combustion engine for an electric drive system to give some zero-emission driveability without having to buy a new EV. With CMVTE’s electric drive system motors, controllers, batteries, and chargers it is possible to perform the conversion of a previously gas combustion vehicle to an efficient and fully electric vehicle. The approach to this complex system fuels vehicle longevity, decreases fuel use, and facilitates the continued use of gas combustion vehicles. CMVTE has engineered and integrated each component to enable sustainable mobility.
What Is a DIY Electric Car Conversion Kit?
Recent increases in DIY EV and electric vehicle conversion have been driven by enthusiasts looking for cleaner and more cost-effective alternatives to gasoline propulsion. CMVTE has been supporting the movement with high-performance and customizable plug and drive systems. These systems have been integrated and optimized for classic cars, sedans, trucks, and fleets.
Key Components Included in a DIY EV Conversion Kit
Electric Motor
The core power system of a converted EV is the electric engine replacement of the traditional internal combustion engine with cleaner and efficient torque. CMVTE`s state of the art PMSM, and AC motors, are between 2kW and 5kW specifically designed for long-term high performance and durability. These motors provide the necessary power and performance for high-end driving and maintenance-free zero-emission driving of several vehicles including motorcycles and commercial vehicles.
Battery Pack
Stored in the battery pack is the total energy supply of the vehicle and therefore is a determining factor in the range and power output of the vehicle. CMVTE electric is lithium battery packs designed for high reliability and long battery cycle life. Once properly housed, these batteries provide reliable performance in a range of different driving situations. This robust designed batteries are also used in lightweight cars and heavy vehicles, which is a big part of powering CMVTE electric zero emission conversion systems.
Motor Controller
The motor controller is the brain of the system and manages the energy flow between the battery and the motor. CMVTE programmable PMSM controllers of optimized torque, smooth acceleration and increase efficient control for different vehicles. They guard components from power surges, provide efficient reliability, and smooth power transfer for all systems.
Charger and Charging Port
The battery is charged both efficiently and safely as the port and cables work together, and CMVTE onboard chargers are protective and reliable, working the same whether from home and commercial charging stations, as they are capable of different voltages. They are designed to work with different vehicle platforms and protect the battery’s health and manage their charge cycles. These components enable practical, convenient, and efficient everyday use of EVs after their conversion due to their reliable operation and durable constriction.
Wiring, Mounts & Additional Hardware
CMVTE’s rapid conversion business packs reliable and safe integration with hardware designed to create a durable and smooth system to connect camEV’s converted EV components. Loose hardware can create a plethora of issues down the line and that’s why durable and reliable components are used to manage electrics as well as securely mount motors and batteries.
How a DIY Electric Car Conversion Kit Works
Doing a DIY EV conversion is as easy as pulling out the gasoline parts. Installing CMVTE electric components is as simple as removing the internal combustion engine and replacing it with the motor and battery pack. System electrical integration is the last step after mount installation, battery placement, and wiring. Complete the conversion with system operation testing to check that the system is working efficiently and safely.
Choosing the Right Car for Electric Conversion
Best vehicles for DIY EV conversions
Lightweight classic cars and simple sedans are the perfect candidates for conversions due to ease and efficiency of installations. CMVTE sells classic cars, daily sedan, SUV and light commercial vehicles. Vehicles that have straightforward mehanical layouts, moderate weight and availabe battery space offer the best performance and range after being electrified and are therefore compatible with most CMVTE systems.
What to avoid (heavy vehicles, complex electronics)
For planning the DIY conversion, staying away from extremely heavy vehicles or models with overly complex onboard electronics and systems is best. These vehicles will increase the complexity, cost, and required labor due to the need for larger power systems and batteries. Upon selecting a vehicle CMVTE suggests simple wiring and manageable weight for a smooth install and maintainable long term reliable performance with their conversion kits and components.
Factors to consider: weight, aerodynamics, space for batteries
The key technical points when selecting a vehicle for electrification are overall weight, battery space, and the vehicle’s aerodynamic design. Lighter vehicles will have lower energy demand, and better aerodynamics will allow for improved efficiency at high speeds. Battery placement will also allow for a greater level of safety if there is enough space within the chassis or interior.
Step-by-Step Guide to Converting Your Car to Electric
Step 1 – Remove the internal combustion components
To begin with, the removal of the engine, exhaust system, fuel tank, and other related hardware must be done to create space for the electric components. This makes the vehicle even more lightweight and prepares it for the installation of CMVTE’s motor and battery and their related wiring systems. Disassembling components carefully and at the right pace will allow for the uninstallation of parts that are damaged, the other parts to be saved for future use, and the safe installation of components later on. This foundational step allows the installation of the vehicle’s clean and efficient electric drivetrain.
Step 2 – Install the electric motor and mounts
The next step involves the installation of the electric motor. The motor is fastened to the vehicle’s frame and makes use of custom built and rugged mounts that will ensure that the motor is secure. After the installation of the motor, the motor will serve as the primary power source of the vehicle where it will deliver torque and operate with high efficiency and with great reliability. Proper installation will ensure that unwanted noise and vibrations will not be present, and ensure that long term maintenance will not have to be done.
Step 3 – Install battery packs
The next process to be completed is the installation of the battery. The battery installation involves placing lit uh im packs in various locations that will create the safest and most efficient balance of weight. CMVTE’s high performance batteries have a great power output and come with various mounting options. After the battery packs are installed on the vehicle. The battery will operate as a source of energy for the motor and will ensure that long and dependable trips can be taken on the vehicle.
Step 4 – Connect wiring, controller & charger
This step solves the problem by joining the motor with the battery, the controller, and the charger with the right wiring. The programmable controllers and wiring harnesses made by CMVTE make integration easier and allow for a consistent and reliable flow of energy. For safety and reliability, proper routing, grounding, and insulation need to be in place. With all of the components joined together, the system is a complete electric drivetrain that will be able to power the vehicle without any disruptions.
Step 5 – Test and troubleshoot the system
When the devices are all joined together, there are a series of functions that need to be performed in order to complete the system. Functions that need to be verified include controller setting adjustments, charger setting changes, battery performance changes, and motor responsiveness changes. CMVTE components allow for great troubleshooting, and there is no need for guesswork, as problems with the system can be squared away with the components. Any problems with wiring needing to be fixed are solved beforehand to allow for proper and complete utilization of the vehicle that is safe and efficient.
Cost Breakdown of a DIY Electric Car Conversion Kit
CMVTE sells highly rated kits that are fairly priced considering the quality of the motors, controller, chargers, and other necessary components. One of the factors equally affecting price among other brands is system size as the lowest performers are the cheapest and the more expensive systems cost more. All other factors equal, overlap of systems at the lower propulsion power of the more expensive systems are popular among conversion of heavier vehicles. Though variable, most systems are rugged, capable of a lasting mission, and will provide reliable service due to their global tech support. The systems will function optimally supporting lighter weight vehicles, like small RVs, where smaller systems cost less.
Performance Expectations After Conversion
Driving range
Additional expenses like the system, lithium irrigation battery pack, professional labor, reg brake, cooling system, updated software, and the tech support are necessary on a tiered basis. The biggest potential overspend is the pack because of its temp coefficient and battery life/number of recharge cycles. All other costs are assumed to reflect the user’s personal taste.
Top speed and acceleration
All the factors included of a complete conversion, the most conservative estimate, will total several thousand dollars. The biggest spend of the entire configuration will be modular batteries, keeping boards, and the smaller bespoke components of additional wiring, light metal fabrication, and systems costs. The lower the weight of the conversion the lower the electric propulsion power required. This will allow for smaller systems. Operationally, CMVTE maintains popular and rugged systems as battery systems for the RV conversion.
Charging time
The time it takes to charge an electric vehicle is influenced by the amount of electrical infrastructure available, the charging device in use, and the battery size. Vehicles in CMVTE’s fleet can complete charge cycles in an optimized manner to ensure that battery health is maintained and that minimizing downtime is a priority. Smaller battery systems may fully charge in a few hours.
Maintenance and lifespan
Maintenance is easier for all vehicles in the fleet and converted vehicles to to have more simple mechanical systems. CMVTE motors and controllers are expected to have long service lives and require little active maintenance. The battery packs will need maintenance on a more regular basis, but this can be done with routine inspections to the rest of the vehicle. With proper care and quality components, a converted vehicle can provide seamless service for many years. The motors provide quiet and low cost operation to the vehicle. .
Pros and Cons of Using a DIY Electric Car Conversion Kit
Benefits
DIY EV conversions have the potential for significant cost savings on fuel as well as pollution having been at the forefront of a major eco friendly movement. CMVTE, for the first time, also offers the ability to customize system performance as well as an entire vehicle. With the ability to fully customize the vehicle, it also reduces waste as older vehicles that would have been scrapped can be used with modern components. Users are also able to keep vehicles that have a lot of sentimental value to them.
Drawbacks
Conversions require skill, time, and attention to detail. Batteries make up the largest portion of the cost, and some areas require extra paperwork and inspections, and added complexity. Int CMVTE’s components are reliable, beginners will most likely need some professional help with the wiring and programming. There are legal and insurance matters that can vary by each region. With the right preparation, however, the challenges can be overcome, and the end result will be a successful and durable electric conversion.
Legal, Safety & Insurance Considerations
To be legally used, converted EVs must comply with the local, registration, and inspection and road safety requirements. Electric modifications may require updates to insurance policy. Engineering of CMVTE components engineered keeps safety compliance and support stable.
Popular DIY Electric Car Conversion Kit Brands
CMVTE, popular internationally for robust motors, controllers, chargers, and complete EV systems, is a go-to brand for conversion kits. Other brands can be cheap with basic kits. Customizations, however, are where CMVTE shines with high performance and compatibility with multiple vehicle types.
Tips for a Successful DIY EV Conversion
Success is largely dependent on having the right tools, sufficient financials, and good components. CMVTE recommends battery placement planning, wiring, and performance upgrades like cooling systems to regenerative braking for optimal performance.
FAQs About DIY Electric Car Conversion Kit
Is it legal to convert a gas car to electric?
Most of the time, EV conversions are legal.
How long does a DIY EV conversion take?
On average, do-it-yourself conversions take a few weeks to a couple months due to the restrictions of tools, skill, and parts availability. Integration of compatible CMVTE kits can greatly reduce the time and ease of the installation.
What is the total cost of converting a car to electric?
The cost varies a lot, but it usually is in the range of a few thousand dollars due to batteries and labor.
Can any car be converted to electric?
Most cars can be converted, but lightweight cars that are less complicated electronically will be the easiest. CMVTE caters to a lot of platforms whose components are top class.
Do DIY electric car conversion kits come with batteries?
Some of the kits do have batteries, but you will often have to buy them separately. CMVTE sells high-quality lithium battery packs that will work with most kits, so you will always have dependable batteries with a good range after the conversion.
How hard is it to install an electric motor in a car?
The ease of installation is based on the vehicle and the installer. Motor mounts and wiring will be a big help, but CMVTE motors are good, so you might less need the help of a professional but have to have the tools.
What range can I expect from a converted electric car?
The expected range will vary with the vehicle. Lots of conversions will have a reliable range and a range that will be good for pack driving, especially with the lithium batteries from CMVTE.
