Retrofit is future of carbon-free transportation!

Are you ready to join the electric revolution without breaking the bank? While EVs may not be perfect, they’re still the way to go if we want to clean up our act and reduce emissions. But don’t worry; you don’t have to buy a brand new battery-powered car if you don’t want to. There are companies out there that can help you revamp your fossil-fueled ride and turn it into an electric dream machine.

Jaunt Motors, and Zero EV have teamed up and rebranded as Fellten with the mission to electrify the masses by retrofitting gas-guzzlers into electric dream machines, harnessing the genius of their talented designers and engineers.

Fellten  plans to conquer the world, starting with Australia, the UK and the US, giving new life to classic vehicles such as Land Rover Defenders and Porsche 911s. Electrifying old beauties, one retrofit at a time.

Fellten had a lightbulb moment and realized that the world wasn’t quite ready for EVs just yet. Instead of joining the crowded race to create yet another electric car, they put a twist on things and wondered, what if we gave classic 4X4s a green makeover? And thus, their journey to electrify old gems began.

Fellten saw a chance to rescue trusty old 4X4s from their retiring days and launch them into the future of zero emissions. By retrofitting them with electric motors and batteries, they’re helping the environment and catering to those who need these rugged vehicles for their daily adventures on tough roads. A win-win for both the planet and their wallets.

With the goal of giving classic cars a clean energy makeover, this company was born a few years back with a mission to electrify Land Rover Defenders first and foremost. The co-founder described it as a love letter to the nostalgia of rugged adventures, allowing folks to relive their off-roading dreams while leaving a lighter carbon footprint behind.

Jaunt Motors teamed up with Zero EV who were already revamping vintage rides into electric chariots. However, with the UK market quickly embracing EVs, they pivoted to sharing their retrofitting expertise with other companies instead. And with their shared vision, it wasn’t long before they joined forces and became the mighty merger known as Fellten.

Dave Budge, co-founder and captain of Jaunt, notes that retrofitting classic cars with modern tech was no easy feat. It was a puzzle fitting the compact electric motor. Still, the real conundrum was cramming a battery with enough juice to meet consumer demands into a chassis never intended to house such technology.

According to Dave, Fellten sources its batteries from leading suppliers in Europe and China, and the electric motors are their own brainchild. They also tinker with circuit boards and software, but the rest of the retrofitted EVs’ bits and bobs come from a global network of suppliers.

Electrifying classic cars is technically feasible, but the price tag can raise eyebrows. Transforming a vintage Land Rover or Porsche into a sleek electric ride will run you about $70.000, complete with all the bells and whistles, even air conditioning. While it may seem steep, keep in mind that retrofitting an old car with all the necessary tech requires a lot of elbow grease.

Retrofitting an old car to an EV may require some sprucing up, a new paint job or an upgraded interior, which all add to the time and cost of the conversion. But for some folks, it’s worth it to preserve sentimental value or stand out from the sea of Teslas and Volkswagen IDs.

The market for retrofitted EVs is a niche, catering to those with specific needs that modern EVs can’t fulfill, but their trusty old Land Rover Defenders can.

Fellten’s mission is to make the world sit up and take notice of EV conversions and their perks, whether preaching to the choir (the government) or spreading the gospel to the masses.

The team has big plans for Australia: to turn their prototype workshop into a full-fledged factory, churning out tens of electrified vehicles for the industy, rather than just a lucky few per year.

Fellten‘s founders have set their sights high, with a goal of pumping out 150-200 electrified vehicle systems annually across their workshops in North America and Europe.”

Sources: Fellten, Jaunt Motors and green.start-up.ro

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the developments in retrofitting commercial vehicles and how do they benefit low-carbon transport?

Advancements in Retrofitting Commercial Vehicles

The landscape of retrofitting commercial vehicles is evolving, marked by strategic collaborations aimed at enhancing electric mobility. Industry leaders and innovative startups are co-developing retrofitting solutions that transform traditional vehicles into eco-friendly alternatives. These advancements are not only technical but also strategic, combining industrial expertise with cutting-edge technology.

Key Developments

1. Collaborative Innovations: Partnerships between experienced vehicle manufacturers and retrofitting pioneers are driving the creation of retrofit kits. These kits are designed for seamless integration with existing vehicle models, expanding the accessibility of electric transport.
2. Assembly and Availability: The latest retrofit kits, particularly for models like the Renault Master III, are assembled in specialized facilities, ensuring quality and consistency. As of mid-2024, these kits are making their way to market, offering better opportunities for businesses to embrace low-carbon alternatives.
3. Enhanced Vehicle Range: With an approximate range of 200 km, these retrofit kits enable commercial vehicles to operate efficiently without compromising on service radius. This improvement underscores the potential of retrofitting to significantly lower carbon emissions across various industries.

Benefits for Low-Carbon Transport

• Increased Accessibility: Retrofitting makes it possible for businesses to transition to electric vehicles without the need for purchasing entirely new fleets. This approach reduces costs and broadens the reach of green technology.
• Environmental Impact: By converting existing vehicles into low-emission models, retrofitting plays a crucial role in reducing carbon footprints. It provides an immediate impact on environmental conservation efforts and promotes sustainable business practices.
• Economic Efficiency: Beyond environmental benefits, retrofitting is cost-effective. It leverages existing vehicle assets, extending their life cycle and providing a more affordable path to electrification.

This focus on retrofitting commercial vehicles demonstrates a significant step towards making low-carbon transport more accessible and effective, laying the groundwork for a more sustainable future in transportation.

Is electric vehicle retrofitting legal, and what are the regulations that must be followed?

Legality of EV Retrofitting

Electric vehicle (EV) retrofitting is indeed legal, but it comes with specific guidelines that must be adhered to. Since April 2020, transforming a traditional fuel-powered vehicle into an electric one is permissible, provided the conversion is conducted by a certified professional.

Key Regulations

1. Weight and Power Requirements:
   • The retrofitted vehicle should have a weight difference not exceeding 20% compared to its original weight.
   • The electric motor installed must match the power output of the original combustion engine.
2. Vehicle Registration:
   • The vehicle’s registration must reflect the change in ‘fuel type/energy source.’ This amendment is crucial for compliance but does not necessitate a complete re-approval process.
3. Approved Kits:
   • Only pre-approved kits are to be used for the conversion. These kits, vetted through regulatory standards, ensure both safety and performance consistency.

Roadworthiness Testing

Even after the retrofit, the vehicle must undergo regular roadworthiness tests. These assessments are critical to ensure that the vehicle remains safe and functional on public roads.

By following these regulations, you can confidently retrofit your vehicle while staying on the right side of the law.

How is the retrofitting process carried out, and what components are involved?

Dave Budge, co-founder and captain of Jaunt, notes that retrofitting classic cars with modern tech was no easy feat. It was a puzzle fitting the compact electric motor. Still, the real conundrum was cramming a battery with enough juice to meet consumer demands into a chassis never intended to house such technology.

The retrofitting process begins with certified car maintenance and repair professionals. They employ prefab kitsspecifically designed for this transformation. Installation can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, contingent upon the car model. Interestingly, certain components such as the braking system, shock absorbers, and gearbox remain untouched during this process, ensuring that the car retains some of its original mechanical charm.

According to Dave, Fellten sources its batteries from leading suppliers in Europe and China, and the electric motors are their own brainchild. They also tinker with circuit boards and software, but the rest of the retrofitted EVs’ bits and bobs come from a global network of suppliers.

Once the car has been retrofitted, there’s a crucial step: the vehicle’s registration card must be updated to reflect the new engine’s energy source. This ensures that the vehicle is legally compliant and recognized as an electric vehicle.

Electrifying classic cars is technically feasible, but the price tag can raise eyebrows. Transforming a vintage Land Rover or Porsche into a sleek electric ride will run you about $70,000, complete with all the bells and whistles, even air conditioning. While it may seem steep, keep in mind that retrofitting an old car with all the necessary tech requires a lot of elbow grease.

Retrofitting an old car to an EV may require some sprucing up, a new paint job or an upgraded interior, which all add to the time and cost of the conversion. The service is guaranteed, adding peace of mind to those investing in this green transition.

How long does the process take?

The installation can vary in duration, ranging from a few hours to several days, depending on the specific vehicle model.

What are the post-installation requirements?

After retrofitting, the vehicle’s registration card must be updated to reflect the new energy source of the engine.

Is the service guaranteed?

Yes, the retrofitting service comes with a guarantee, ensuring reliability and peace of mind.

What components are retained?

The car’s existing braking system, shock absorbers, and gearbox are preserved during the retrofitting.

What materials or kits are used?

The process utilizes pre-assembled kits specifically designed for retrofitting vehicles.

Who performs the retrofitting?

The retrofitting process is conducted by professionals who are certified in car maintenance and repair.

What is retrofitting and how does it convert an internal combustion engine vehicle into an electric vehicle?

Fellten saw a chance to rescue trusty old 4X4s from their retiring days and launch them into the future of zero emissions. By retrofitting them with electric motors and batteries, they’re helping the environment and catering to those who need these rugged vehicles for their daily adventures on tough roads. A win-win for both the planet and their wallets.

Retrofitting is a mechanical operation where the petrol/diesel engine and fuel tank on an ICE vehicle are removed and replaced with an electric motor and battery, thereby turning it into an electric vehicle. The electric motor used can just as well run directly off a battery or indirectly off a fuel cell (hydrogen). This process breathes new life into classic machines by merging traditional engineering with cutting-edge technology.

With the goal of giving classic cars a clean energy makeover, this company was born a few years back with a mission to electrify Land Rover Defenders first and foremost. The co-founder described it as a love letter to the nostalgia of rugged adventures, allowing folks to relive their off-roading dreams while leaving a lighter carbon footprint behind.

Jaunt Motors teamed up with Zero EV who were already revamping vintage rides into electric chariots. However, with the UK market quickly embracing EVs, they pivoted to sharing their retrofitting expertise with other companies instead. And with their shared vision, it wasn’t long before they joined forces and became the mighty merger known as Fellten.

Dave Budge, co-founder and captain of Jaunt, notes that retrofitting classic cars with modern tech was no easy feat. It was a puzzle fitting the compact electric motor. Still, the real conundrum was cramming a battery with enough juice to meet consumer demands into a chassis never intended to house such technology.

According to Dave, Fellten sources its batteries from leading suppliers in Europe and China, and the electric motors are their own brainchild. They also tinker with circuit boards and software, but the rest of the retrofitted EVs’ bits and bobs come from a global network of suppliers.

Through this intricate dance of innovation and preservation, retrofitting not only transforms vehicles but also reimagines the journey toward sustainability, offering a bridge between the past and a cleaner, greener future.

What are the possible power sources for the electric motor?

The motor can operate directly from a battery or through a hydrogen fuel cell.

What is the purpose of retrofitting?

The goal is to convert a traditional vehicle into an electric one.

What components are added during retrofitting?

An electric motor and a battery are installed in their place.

What components are removed during retrofitting?

The internal combustion engine and fuel tank are taken out.

Which types of vehicles are eligible for retrofitting?

Fellten plans to conquer the world, starting with Australia, the UK, and the US, giving new life to classic vehicles such as Land Rover Defenders and Porsche 911s. Electrifying old beauties, one retrofit at a time.

Which Vehicles Can Be Retrofitted?

The electrification journey doesn’t stop with just classic models. EV retrofitting is a game-changer for a wide range of vehicles. If your car is over five years old, it’s eligible for a transformation, breathing new life into both petrol and diesel motor vehicles. This opens the door for many beloved old-timers to join the electric revolution, merging the allure of classic design with the sustainability of modern technology.

Imagine your cherished vintage ride, revitalized with cutting-edge electric power, making every drive a nod to the past with a step toward the future.

Which types of fuel engines can undergo the retrofitting process?

Vehicles with either petrol or diesel engines are suitable for retrofitting.

What is the minimum age requirement for a vehicle to be eligible for an electric retrofit?

Vehicles need to be more than 5 years old to qualify for an electric retrofit.