Zwei Volkswagen Käfer Cabrios mit geöffneter Heckklappe, einmal mit Boxermotor, einmal mit Kofferraum.

This is how classic cars turn into electric vehicles

Classic cars, such as the “Pretzel” Beetle, Samba Bus or Pirelli-Golf make the hearts of car enthusiasts beat faster. With the conversion to electric drive with the help of eClassics and the Volkswagen Team E-Kit, owners can make sure that driving their classic car won’t become a thing of the past.

Find out more about this and electric classic cars:

  • Generally, every classic or modern classic car can be converted to an electric vehicle.
  • Electric motors require less maintenance than combustion engines.
  • In some markets, converted classic cars receive the same tax and registration advantages as new electric cars.

More than half a million classic cars are driving on Germany’s roads. And even though some collectors may still have an electric Golf I CitySTROM in the garage, most of these vehicles are powered by combustion engines. Classic car enthusiasts who want to transition to electric mobility can turn to one of the many companies specialised in converting classic cars to electric. Thereby these valuable treasures remain on the road and run locally emission-free. 

Even an old dog can learn new tricks
Second life for the classic car

For old cars, engine or transmission damage can mean the end of the vehicle.  Replacement parts may be unavailable or repair costs too high. An alternative:  conversion to electric drive. Basically, any model can be converted, including the VW Beetle, Audi 80, VW Golf etc.  Fans of the VW Beetle and Bus can have their car converted at eClassicsOpens an external link or alternatively purchase a completely restored vehicle. The drivetrain, batteries and other components come directly from Volkswagen and are identical in construction in current production vehicles, such as the ID.3Opens an external link.

Of course, the trend of equipping classic cars with electric drive is not only visible in Germany. Companies around the world are specialising in converting classics into e-vehicles. For example Jack’s Garage in London is converting VW Beetles, Buses and other classics by purchasing the “e-kit” from eClassics. The e-kit contains all original Volkswagen components required for the electrification, such as the electric drive, power and control electronics, battery charger, etc. 

eClassics

Electrically into the future

eClassics

Electrically into the future

Electrified VW Bus and Beattle are charging

Prepare your VW Bus or Beetle for emission-free mobility with an e-kit from eClassics including original components of the ID models from Volkswagen Group Components. 

  • Old look, new driving experience

    In addition to the environmental benefits, classic car conversion has another positive aspect. In their original condition, VW Beetles, Karman Ghias and many other cars have limited  driving performance. With an electric motor, the maximum torque is immediately available as opposed to combustion engines where high engine speeds are needed for high performance. In addition, modern electric motors require significantly less maintenance than older combustion engines. 

    Better driving experience and more space: the rear of the eClassics electric Beetle even has a luggage compartment.
    The modern drive technology can be combined with a contemporary interior.

  • The costs

    The exact cost for converting a vehicle to an electric vehicle depends on the model, performance requirements and the energy content of the battery. A pre-manufactured electrification kit can be installed in an already prepared vehicle within one week. However, we cannot forget about potential restoration or repair work on the body, suspension or other parts that may be necessary in an older car.

Electric mobility: classic cars are not the only winners  

Of course, the owners of classic or modern classic cars benefit from the conversion first. They can enjoy their car for longer. Especially if the engine or transmission is already beyond repair. Electric motors enhance the driving experience and ensure that driving restrictions in city centres are no longer an issue.

Finally, the conversion to an electric classic car is not only good for the owner but also for the development of electric mobility in general. Diverse electric cars with classic and extraordinary design help enthuse people for electrification and drive the mobility transformation forward.

Disclaimer von Volkswagen AG

Die in dieser Darstellung gezeigten Fahrzeuge und Ausstattungen können in einzelnen Details vom aktuellen deutschen Lieferprogramm abweichen. Abgebildet sind teilweise Sonderausstattungen der Fahrzeuge gegen Mehrpreis. Bitte beachten Sie auch unseren Konfigurator für eine Übersicht der aktuell verfügbaren Modelle und Ausstattungen.
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