How to Convert Your Petrol or Diesel Car to an Electric Vehicle

Addressing the ongoing threat of global warming needs collective action, including reducing individual carbon footprints. Choosing electric vehicles (EVs) for new purchases is an important step. But what about existing petrol or diesel vehicle owners? Electric car conversion offers a solution.

 

Converting your vehicle to electric power can help combat climate change. It involves replacing the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) with an electric motor and a battery system, making your vehicle eco-friendly. This transition allows individuals to contribute to the environment's well-being and also extend the life of their existing cars.

 

Different Types of Electric Cars

Electric cars have emerged as a sustainable alternative to traditional ICE vehicles. Here's an overview of the different types of electric cars:

 

1. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV)

BEVs rely solely on the electric charge stored in their batteries to power the vehicle. Depending on the model, these batteries are charged with either Direct Current (DC) or alternating current (AC). BEVs produce zero emissions as they do not rely on fossil fuels, which makes them an eco-friendly choice.

 

2. Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV)

HEVs operate using a combination of electric power and traditional fuels like petrol or diesel. They make use of electric current generated through regenerative braking, where the vehicle converts heat produced during braking into electrical energy. HEVs switch to traditional fuels once the car is running, providing increased fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to conventional ICE vehicles.

 

3. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV)

PHEV cars are similar to HEV cars, but the difference is that the batteries get charged in both the external charging and braking. This dual-charging capability offers greater flexibility to use electric power for shorter trips and traditional fuels for longer journeys.

 

Electric Vehicle Conversion Industry

According to the Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, the guidelines for retrofitting can be divided into three segments:

• Electric vehicle conversion for all types.
• Hybrid conversion of vehicles with a weight of 3.5 tonnes.
• Vehicles above 3.5 tonnes.

When you convert a diesel car to electric or a petrol car to electric, there is a positive environmental consequence, but you should be aware that the conversion comes with a cost. The petrol/diesel to electric car conversion kits are provided by many companies. Choosing the right conversion kit is important for a smooth and successful transformation from a traditional IC vehicle to an electric one.

 

Benefits of Using Electric Vehicles

The benefits of converting a petrol car to electric or a diesel car to electric are enormous. Some of the benefits are mentioned here:

 

1. No Fuel Costs

With the continued rise in fuel prices, owning an electric car offers significant savings. Electric vehicles eliminate the need for regular refuelling with petrol or diesel, saving you money in the long run. Charging an EV is generally more cost-effective than buying fossil fuels.

 

2. Reduced Pollution

Electric cars play an important role in improving air quality and promoting a greener environment. They emit fewer air pollutants, helping to overcome the negative impacts of traditional vehicles on air quality. Additionally, EVs produce minimal noise pollution, contributing to quieter and more peaceful environments.

 

3. Low Maintenance

Compared to conventional ICE vehicles, electric cars have fewer components and simpler mechanical structures. This results in reduced maintenance costs over time. There are fewer parts for wear and tear, which reduces the visits to the mechanic.

 

4. Safety

EVs offer unique safety advantages when compared to heavier ICE vehicles. Their lighter weight reduces the risk of vehicle damage in certain scenarios, improving overall safety.

 

5. Future

The popularity of electric vehicles shows a growing trend among consumers. More people are eager to buy EVs or choose to convert diesel car to electric car. This surge in interest aligns with the increasing environmental concerns and the urgency to address environmental damage.

 

Things to Know Before Converting the Electric Vehicles

Converting your current petrol or diesel car into an electric car needs some fundamental considerations. It is essential to be aware of a few key aspects of electric vehicle conversions, including:

 

1. Cost

Transitioning your existing petrol or diesel car to an electric one comes with a significant cost. You will need an electric conversion kit, and the overall conversion cost can vary depending on the specific vehicle make and model. Ensure that you have the necessary budget to cover these expenses.

 

2. Commute Distance

If you are someone who prefers travelling shorter distances to daily commute, then EV cars can be the option you should look for. This is because the battery of EV cars is more suitable for city rides and is limited to shorter distances.

 

3. Charging Infrastructure

Just as petrol or diesel cars require refuelling, EVs need regular recharging. Ensure you have access to convenient charging points in your area or along your usual routes to keep your EV's battery charged.

 

4. Vehicle Eligibility

Not all petrol or diesel cars can be retrofitted for electric conversion. So, for converting a petrol car to an electric one, you first need to verify if the car is fit for retrofitting or not. Finding a reputable facility that specialises in electric vehicle conversions is crucial.

 

5. Electric Car Insurance

If you decide to convert your car to electric, it is important to inform your car insurance provider. You would need to buy insurance coverage for electric vehicles, taking your car's modifications into account.

 

Conclusion

If you are committed to improving the environmental friendliness of your current petrol or diesel car, converting it into an electric vehicle is the right option. However, it is important to know that the petrol or diesel car conversion process involves both a financial investment and a time commitment.

 

Once the conversion is complete, it is advisable to buy appropriate electric vehicle insurance from reputable providers like Shriram General Insurance. This step ensures that you are adequately protected against any potential financial losses associated with a transformed electric car.

 

FAQs

1. Is changing car engines in India illegal?

It is not illegal to change car engines in India if you have prior approval from the Regional Transportation Office (RTO).

 

2. What will be the cost of changing the petrol/diesel car to electric?

The exact cost of petrol/diesel to electric car conversion varies from the vehicle type and the kit used. Many electric vehicle kit manufacturers are offering retrofittable electric car conversion kits.

 

3. Can it be cheaper to convert a diesel or petrol car to an electric car?

Converting a diesel or petrol car to electric costs an initial expense that is usually lower than buying a new electric car.