Converting a classic car to an electric vehicle (EV), also known as EV-swapping, is a topic that sparks heated debates among car enthusiasts. While purists may argue that it alters the vehicle’s originality, EV-swapping offers a way to keep vintage cars on the road while improving their performance and efficiency.
One of the biggest advantages of EV conversions is that some of them, like the one done on this 1928 Ford Model A Pickup, are fully reversible. This means owners can enjoy the benefits of an electric drivetrain while having the option to restore the original combustion engine if desired.
Historical Context: Ford and Electric Vehicles
Although Ford never produced electric cars in the 1920s, the company had experimented with electric power before. In 1914, Ford introduced an electric version of the Model T, marking its first venture into battery-powered vehicles.
However, the shift toward gasoline-powered engines was inevitable due to the widespread availability and affordability of oil. By the 1920s, electric cars had largely disappeared as manufacturers focused on refining internal combustion engine (ICE) technology.
Interestingly, this EV-swapped 1928 Ford Model A Pickup represents an alternative automotive history—one in which electric power remained dominant instead of being overshadowed by gasoline engines.
The EV Conversion Project: Details and Components
This EV conversion was undertaken by Dennis Thompson, a retiree passionate about classic cars and sustainable transportation. The project features a Hyper 9 electric drivetrain kit supplied by Flash Drive Motors.
- Electric Motor: The Hyper 9 motor generates 120 horsepower (90 kW), significantly improving upon the original engine’s output.
- Battery Pack: The vehicle uses five 6.3-kWh battery modules sourced from a Tesla Model S, providing a total capacity of approximately 33 kWh.
- Power Output: The electric motor provides nearly double the power of the original engine, which only had 40 horsepower.
The conversion is designed to be non-invasive, ensuring that the original components can be reinstalled if needed. This approach preserves the vehicle’s value while offering a modern driving experience.
Benefits and Flexibility of EV-Swapping
One of the key benefits of this EV conversion is its reversibility. Classic car owners often worry that modifying a vintage vehicle will reduce its value. However, this particular swap allows for easy restoration to its original state.
Other advantages include:
- Increased reliability and lower maintenance compared to a traditional internal combustion engine.
- No emissions, making the vehicle environmentally friendly.
- Reduced fuel costs, as electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline.
Performance Upgrades and Driving Experience
Compared to its factory specifications, the EV-swapped Ford Model A Pickup is significantly more powerful and capable of modern driving conditions.
The original engine provided just 40 horsepower and a top speed of around 65 mph. With the Hyper 9 motor, the vehicle can accelerate faster, keep up with highway speeds, and even surprise other drivers at traffic lights.
Despite the electric conversion, much of the vintage driving experience remains intact:
- The car retains its original three-speed transmission, allowing for the same gear-shifting experience.
- The straight-cut gears still produce the characteristic gear whine, a familiar sound to vintage car enthusiasts.
- The vehicle body’s natural rattles and creaks remain, preserving its classic feel.
The only major differences are the absence of engine noise and exhaust fumes, making for a quieter and cleaner ride.
Conclusion
EV-swapping a vintage vehicle like the 1928 Ford Model A Pickup presents a compelling case for the future of classic car preservation. By integrating modern electric powertrains, these vehicles can continue to be enjoyed on the road without the drawbacks of outdated technology.
While traditionalists may resist the idea, the benefits of EV conversions—such as improved performance, reliability, and sustainability—make it an appealing option for many classic car owners. And with the possibility of reverting to the original engine, EV-swapping offers the best of both worlds.
Whether you’re a die-hard purist or an advocate for sustainable mobility, one thing is certain: EV conversions are shaping the future of classic cars in ways we never imagined.
