Zero emissions, quiet economy, minimal maintenance ... electric vehicles (EVs) are quite appealing. While one of the biggest current cons of EVs is limited driving range (and recharge time), these issues are being worked on as we speak. And until there are more all-electric production vehicles available, this growing list of gasoline to EV conversion companies will continue to expand.
Here are the companies currently offering ready-to-order production vehicle electric conversions in 2008. Please drop us a line if you learn of more companies that offer other EV conversion options, and we'll add them.
Here are the companies currently offering ready-to-order production vehicle electric conversions in 2008. Please drop us a line if you learn of more companies that offer other EV conversion options, and we'll add them.
1. The AMP
© GM Corp.
It's a zero emissions Saturn Sky two-door sports coupe. Advanced Mechanical Products, Inc. (AMP) converts the conventional gasoline-burning Sky to an all-electric car. Pre-orders are being taken for the first 300 cars that will be sold in the greater Cincinnati and northern Kentucky area. These converted Skys offer 90 mph top speed, 0 - 60 in 5.7 seconds and lithium phosphate batteries that provide a 150-mile range, with an approximate cost of 3¢ per mile. You supply the Saturn Sky in good condition and AMP provides the conversion for $25,000 plus applicable taxes. Anticipated delivery date: early 2009.
2. AC Propulsion - eBox
© AC Propulsion
A made-to-order electric car, the eBox is a conventional Scion xB 5-speed that’s been converted to an all-electric vehicle. With a top speed of 95 mph, the eBox offers a range of 120 – 150 miles with acceleration of 0-60 mph in 7 seconds. It takes between 2 and 5 hours for a full charge. A complete conversion costs $55,000—you supply the Scion xB.
3. Blade Runner MkII
© Blade Electric Vehicles
Blade Electric Vehicles of Australia offers this retrofitted Hyundai Getz that touts 0-60 in 7.5 seconds with a top speed of 77 mph (125 kmh), and offers a range of 74 miles (120 km) in urban areas. A four-seater, recharge times range from 3 to 9 hours. It also offers a towing capacity of 400kg with a small Aunger box trailer. Cost of the retrofit: $32,000.
4. Hybrid Technologies
© Hybrid Technologies
This company has been doing electric conversions for over three years from their development and conversion plant in Mooresville, NC. With a range of about 120 miles per charge and a top speed of 80 mph, the lithium-ion battery packs recharge in about 6 hours. Prices for the conversion include the MSRP base vehicle of the Toyota Yaris ($39,700), PT Cruiser ($55,000) and Pontiac Vibe ($39,700) to the BMW Mini Cooper ($57,500) and Smart car ($43,500)—but if you already have the brand new vehicle, count on a rebate, paying only the remaining conversion amount. In addition to offering an electric motorcycle ($24,900), stay tuned for a new model called the Inizio (watch out, Tesla Roadster) set to premiere in mid-2009. Price: $139,000.