The Ford Model T, an icon of automotive history, is experiencing a silent and powerful rebirth. As electric vehicle conversions sweep the classic car world, the Model T presents a unique and thrilling canvas. But at the heart of every great EV conversion lies a critical question: what about the battery? Forget the lead-acid bricks of yesteryear. For a modern, reliable, and fun electric “Tin Lizzie,” the answer is unequivocally LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate). And when it comes to a 96V system, you’re faced with a delicious choice: the 96V 105Ah or the 96V 210Ah pack. Let’s explore which one fuels your vision.
Why LiFePO4 is the Model T’s Perfect Partner
Before we dive into the choice, let’s understand why LiFePO4 chemistry is a match made in heaven for your classic conversion.
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Safety First: Unlike other lithium chemistries, LiFePO4 is inherently stable and resistant to thermal runaway. It’s the safest lithium option, crucial for a vintage car with unique packaging challenges.
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Longevity Champion: With a lifespan of 3,000-5,000 cycles, these batteries will likely outlast your ownership. They’re built for decades, mirroring the Model T’s own legendary durability.
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Power on Demand: They deliver high continuous discharge rates, giving your Model T the pep you need for modern roads. That “get-up-and-go” feeling is very much achievable.
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Efficiency & Weight: They’re far lighter and more compact than lead-acid, preserving the Model T’s character and handling while offering more usable energy.
The Crucial Choice: 96V 105Ah vs. 96V 210Ah
Here’s where your conversion dream takes shape. Voltage (96V) determines your power and speed potential, while Amp-hours (Ah) are your “fuel tank” size—your range.
Option 1: The Weekend Cruiser (96V 105Ah Pack)
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Energy: ~10 kWh (96V * 105Ah / 1000).
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Ideal For: The purist who drives for fun, not distance. This pack prioritizes agility and simplicity.
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The Ride: Lighter weight means you retain more of the original, nimble feel. Perfect for shows, local coffee runs, and spirited 30-50 mile excursions. It’s a simpler install due to its smaller physical size and weight.
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The Verdict: Choose this if your vision is an authentic, lightweight EV that turns heads and brings smiles on sunny afternoons. It’s about the joy of driving, reimagined.
Option 2: The Electric Pioneer (96V 210Ah Pack)
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Energy: ~20 kWh—double the capacity.
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Ideal For: The adventurer who sees no boundaries. This pack is for range confidence and extended touring.
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The Ride: With 80-100+ miles of range, “range anxiety” vanishes. You can tackle longer tours, explore backroads without concern, and use the car more spontaneously. The trade-off is increased weight and size, requiring careful packaging in the T’s compact frame.
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The Verdict: This is a statement. It transforms the Model T from a local novelty into a genuine, usable electric classic. It says you’re serious about driving, exploring, and pushing the boundaries of what a century-old design can do.
Making Your Decision: Key Considerations
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Real-World Range: Remember, hills, speed, and driving style affect range. The 105Ah pack is for short bursts; the 210Ah is for journeys.
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Weight & Balance: The 210Ah pack can weigh over 100 lbs more. This impacts handling and may require reinforcement. The 105Ah is kinder to the original chassis.
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Charging: Both can use standard EV chargers, but filling the larger “tank” takes longer on a given charger. Plan your charging setup accordingly.
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Budget: The 210Ah pack represents a significant upfront investment, but it offers unparalleled utility per cycle.
The Future is Under the Floorboards
Converting a Ford Model T to electric isn’t just about keeping it on the road; it’s about reinventing it for the next 100 years. A 96V LiFePO4 battery pack is the cornerstone of that revolution.
So, which will it be? The agile, purist 96V 105Ah for buzzing around town with vintage charm? Or the ambitious, capable 96V 210Ah for turning your Model T into a true electric grand tourer?
Your choice of battery doesn’t just power the motor—it defines the experience. Choose your adventure, and let your electric Model T tell a new, silent, and powerful story.
Ready to start your conversion? Share your build plans in the comments below!
