Up next Enhance Your EV Build with These Cutting-Edge Products Published on June 25, 2024 Author Jerome Andre Share article Facebook 0 Twitter 0 Mail 0 From Classic to Electric: The Transformation of the DeLorean DMC-12 Retrofitting the DeLorean for the Future In Reno, Nevada, a software engineer named Jacob Graham has transformed the iconic 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 into an electric beast aptly named AC/DMC. Jacob’s journey began with a vision sparked by the “World’s Fastest DeLorean”, fitted with a 3.8L twin-turbo V-6, and featured on Drive with Matt Farah. Acquiring this exact DeLorean in 2014, he quickly realized the classic was far from the smooth, futuristic ride he dreamed of. It was a project begging for a revival, and thus, the seeds for AC/DMC were sown. “I bought the DeLorean in March 2014 after seeing the video. When I received it, it was in poor condition: the wiring was ratty, the engine was shot, and the clutch was terrible. It had essentially been sitting since the early ’90s. I stripped it down to the frame and restored it. The Buick Grand National engine was rebuilt, but after getting it back in, I still wasn’t happy with it; it wasn’t the smooth driver I wanted. As a result, it sat for a bit, and I started looking at other options,” Jacob said about the initial stages of the project. Jacob’s new decision to embark on this electric journey was fueled by the previous project he was involved in, building his friend Jim Belosic’s “Teslonda,” and a burning desire to master the arcane arts of building his own AC inverter. “After the Tesla-powered Accord project, I really wanted to learn the ins and outs of building an AC inverter from scratch. I have an electronics and computer engineering background, but I hadn’t taken on a complicated mixed-signal project before. It was a stretch goal of sorts,” he said. Jacob selected the 2016 EM57 Nissan Leaf motor, producing 80kW and 250nm, for his soon-to-be electric DeLorean. Once he confirmed it would fit, he pulled the engine out and started grafting the Leaf motor into the car. The motor installation, a critical step, was achieved through custom-designed mounts that cradled the Leaf motor without altering the DeLorean’s frame. “I started the project by removing all the ICE-related components—engine, transaxle, fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump, and HVAC plumbing,” Jacob said. “This gave me a sort of blank slate to work with. I separated the body from the frame so I could get to planning the most important parts of the build—drive unit and battery installation. With the body off, I could gain good access to the frame to measure everything. “I started with the drive unit install,” he continued. “I wanted to reuse the factory engine and transaxle mounts without modifying the frame. I designed the mounts in SolidWorks and laser cut them out of 10-gauge mild steel. With the motor in place, I got to work on the axles. The 2016 Nissan Leaf and the DeLorean have the same diameter axle shafts. I did the unthinkable and cut the Leaf axle and DeLorean axle in half and welded them together—each half is keyed into each other mechanically. Then, I TIG welded a DOM tubing sleeve over the join. It has held up well in my four years driving the car.” For mode selection (drive, reverse, neutral), Jacob wanted to keep the car’s look as factory as possible. He laser cut a switch mechanism that would fit inside the original shift boot for the 5-speed shifter. Pressing the shifter forward puts the car in reverse mode; the middle position is neutral, and the rear is drive. “Next up was the battery install,” Jacob said. “The 24kWh Leaf pack has 48 modules. Some measurements showed I could fit 24 of them in the car’s rear between the frame extensions. I designed and installed a battery box out of laser-cut 10-gauge mild steel. The front of the car had enough space to hold 12 modules on top of the K-member, while the original location of the fuel tank also had exactly enough space to hold 12 modules. I designed a bracket that would bolt to the original fuel tank mounting points and hold the modules.” Jacob opted for the Zeva EVMS V-3 battery management system because of its compact satellite modules. Given that the pack is divided into three groups across the vehicle, this choice was a perfect fit. To connect the BMS satellite modules to the Leaf battery modules, he designed a custom printed circuit board (PCB). This approach significantly streamlined the BMS wiring. An Inverter Saga The journey to find the right inverter was a rollercoaster of triumphs and setbacks, spanning a challenging year. Jacob ultimately emerged victorious with a functional custom inverter. However, in a pragmatic twist, he later switched to a Nissan Leaf Gen 2 inverter. This shift marked a transition from the exhilarating but erratic experiments of a mad scientist to the dependable solutions of a seasoned engineer. Control was a central theme in the creation of AC/DMC. “Initially, I installed a custom 300kW inverter in the car, based on Arlin Sansome’s design,” he said. This took me a full year. I ran this inverter for several years before transitioning to an 80kW inverter from a Gen 2 Nissan Leaf. The primary reason for this change was peace of mind. Although the 300kW inverter performed admirably, it occasionally became temperamental. Eventually, I reached a point where I simply wanted to enjoy driving the car without any worries. The control system for the 80kW inverter is the Zombieverter VCU from EVBMW.com. I chose this VCU because its software is open source, allowing for customization. Additionally, it supports CCS and ChaDeMo fast DC charging.” The main fuses and contactor are located at the rear of the car, underneath the inverter. This setup includes two Gigavac GV200 contactors (main and positive), one Tyco precharge contactor, a 400-amp Ferraz Shawmut fuse, and a 1000a IVT-S current sensor. The bus bars are made of nickel-plated, laser-cut copper. Jacob’s reflections on the importance of being comfortable with failure and viewing setbacks as learning opportunities offer valuable wisdom for any complex project… The final step involved installing the on-board charger and DC-DC converter. Jacob selected a 6.6kW Elcon charger and a DC-DC converter from a Chevy Volt. The Zeva BMS controls the charger, while the Chevy Volt’s DC-DC converter is managed by an Arduino microcontroller running his own software. Both components are mounted on a laser-cut 0.125-inch aluminum “floor” for the DeLorean’s frunk. For the charge port, Jacob aimed to maintain the car’s original fueling location—under the hood. He designed and laser-cut a 0.074-inch stainless steel base plate to frame the CCS port, allowing it to mount seamlessly to the DeLorean. The front battery box also incorporates a mount for a 5kW cabin heater from a Chevy Volt. His current plan includes installing the new boxes, the cabin heater, and an A/C compressor from a Tesla Model S. These additions will be integrated with the DeLorean’s factory HVAC system, enhancing the comfort of Jacob’s drives. Aspirations and Long-Term Dreams In the short term, Jacob’s focus is on enhancing AC/DMC’s functionality, specifically finalizing the CCS charging support. This upgrade is crucial, enabling up to 50kW charging speeds. Installing more weather-resistant battery boxes and integrating the Chevy Volt cabin heater and Tesla Model S A/C compressor with the factory HVAC system will make AC/DMC a comfortable and practical daily driver. Looking to the future, Jacob envisions significant upgrades to both the battery pack and the inverter. Aiming for a minimum range of 150 miles, he is considering the 40kWh pack from a 2018+ Nissan Leaf, which would fit well with the existing battery boxes. The possibility of returning to a 300kW custom inverter, paired with an upgrade for more accurate motor positioning feedback, promises to enhance both performance and efficiency. Jacob’s advice to those considering their own EV conversion projects is clear—do it. His emphasis on the pleasure and reliability of driving an EV-converted vehicle and encouragement to explore the DIY world provides a motivational message for potential converters. Moreover, Jacob’s reflections on the importance of being comfortable with failure and viewing setbacks as learning opportunities offer valuable wisdom for any complex project, not just EV conversions. AC/DMC truly shows what can be achieved when passion meets persistence and a classic car is reborn with an electric heart. Jacob, above, has visions for battery pack and inverter upgrades, as well as a range of 150 miles. SPECS owner Jacob Graham Location: Reno, NV Year, Make, Model: 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 Vehicle Name: AC/DMC Overall Vehicle Weight: 2888 lbs Amount of Time to Build: 6 months Cost to Build: $12,000 Occupation: Software Engineer Motor & Drivetrain Motor Swap Performed By: Jacob Graham Motor Drive Unit Year, Make, Model: 2016 Nissan Leaf EM57 Power: 80kW Torque: 250nm Voltage: 400V Max RPM: 10,390 rpm Peak power RPM: 2700-9000rpm Max continuous power: 80kW Peak Current: 255a Motor/Transmission mounts: Custom, 10ga mild steel Control system and software: Zombieverter VCU, Custom Software Battery System & charger Pack Design: 2012 Nissan Leaf (48 modules) Cell Type: NMC Pouch Module manufacturer & configuration: Nissan 96S2P Battery capacity (in kilowatt-hour ): 24 kWh Battery locations: Front (12 modules), center (12 modules), and rear of car (24 modules) for a total of 48 modules Highway range: 80 miles City range: 90 miles Charger kW charge rate: 6.6kW Charger location: Frunk DC Fast charging: CCS Chassis/Suspension Installation Shop: Jacob Graham Chassis: Factory Rear suspension setup: Factory Control arms: Timeless Steel / SPC Adjustable Upper, DeLorean GO D-Arm Lower Springs: QA1 200 lb rear, QA1 375 lb front Shocks: QA1 Promastar Coilovers Wheels, Tires & Brakes Front Wheel Brand, Size, Width, Backspacing: Factory 15-inch wheels Front Tire Brand and Size: Kumho Ecsta 205/50-15 Rear Wheel Brand, Size, Width, Backspacing: Factory 15-inch wheels + 20mm spacers Rear Tire Brand and Size: Cooper Cobra 235/60-15 Front Brakes: Wilwood Superlite II / 12.19 x 1.25-inch rotors Rear Brakes: Wilwood Superlite II / 12.19 x 0.81-inch rotors Interior Install Shop: JD Auto Trim Steering wheel: Alcantara wrapped with laser-etched AC/DMC logo in the center HVAC System: 5kW cabin heater from Chevy Volt and A/C compressor from a Tesla Model S Radio Head unit: Blaupunkt Bremen SQR 46 DAB Speakers: Kicker 3.5-inch fronts, Kicker 4×10-inch rears Sponsors: SendCutSend.com FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What are the historical and design aspects of the DeLorean that make it suitable for electrification? The DeLorean has always been ahead of its time, making it a prime candidate for electrification. From the outset, its design philosophy emphasized sustainability. The vehicle features modular panels that require no paint and can easily be removed and replaced if damaged. This innovative approach reduces waste and makes maintenance straightforward. A crucial under-the-hood feature is its suspension system, crafted with precision by Lotus. As the DeLoreantransitions to electric power, the added power and torque reveal the full potential of this expertly designed suspension. These elements combine to make the DeLorean not only a cultural icon but also a vehicle well-equipped to embrace the future of electric mobility. What is the controversy surrounding the electrification of classic cars like the DeLorean DMC-12? The electrification of classic cars, such as the DeLorean DMC-12, sparks significant debate among enthusiasts and historians alike. At the heart of the controversy is the tension between preserving historical authenticity and modernizing vehicles for enhanced performance and sustainability. Purists argue that modifying classic cars erases their historical and cultural significance, transforming them from masterpieces of their era into something unrecognizable from their original form. Essentially, they see it as an assault on history, particularly when it comes to rare and exotic models. However, proponents of electrification contend that this transformation is not only beneficial but necessary. Many classic cars, like the DeLorean DMC-12, are known for their iconic design rather than impressive performance. The original driving dynamics often leave much to be desired by today’s standards. By updating these vehicles with electric powertrains, enthusiasts can enjoy a blend of nostalgic aesthetics with modern performance and efficiency. Ultimately, this controversy highlights a broader debate about the evolution of automotive history—balancing the preservation of the past with the innovations of the future. What is the public perception of an electrified DeLorean DMC-12? Public Perception of the Electrified DeLorean DMC-12 When it comes to the electrified version of the DeLorean DMC-12, the public response is overwhelmingly positive. This iconic vehicle, already known for its unique design and cultural impact, garners even more admiration with its modern electric transformation. People seem to appreciate the move away from the original engine, which had limited performance credentials. The switch to an electric powertrain is actually seen as a significant upgrade, enhancing the car without compromising its character. This change aligns with the contemporary shift towards sustainable automotive solutions, aligning perfectly with the ethos of conversion specialists. Overall, the electrified DeLorean maintains its classic charm while offering a more efficient, eco-friendly driving experience, earning it universal acclaim. What are the features of Electrogenic’s electric conversion kit for the DeLorean DMC-12? Electrogenic’s electric conversion kit for the DeLorean DMC-12 is a comprehensive upgrade that maintains the car’s classic essence while enhancing its performance with modern technology. Key Features Full Powertrain Compatibility: The kit is designed for easy installation, allowing for a complete boltin without the need for cutting. This ensures that the integrity of the vehicle is preserved. Customization Options: Customers have the option to personalize various elements, such as the positioning of the charge port and incorporating additional features like air conditioning and a custom dashboard screen. Performance Enhancements: The original 130hp V6 engine is replaced with a powerful 160kW (215hp) electric motor. The conversion boosts torque to 310Nm, significantly improving acceleration, reducing the 0-60 mph speed to under five seconds. Battery and Range: Equipped with a 43kWh battery system, the conversion provides over 150 miles of driving range, adding just 40kg to the car’s weight. Charging Capabilities: Includes a CCS socket for fast DC charging at 60-70kW, making long trips more feasible. Features vehicle-to-load functionality, which can supply up to 3kW at 240V to external devices. Weight Distribution and Handling: The conversion carefully balances the weight, with minimal additional mass at the front to maintain original steering feel. Batteries are placed strategically to preserve the original weight distribution, keeping the car light at under 1,300kg. Original Character Retention: Efforts are made to keep the car’s handling characteristics by preserving the alignment and positioning of the original drive shafts. This conversion not only amplifies the iconic DeLorean’s performance but also respects its original design and driving experience. How does Electrogenic ensure their conversions maintain the original driving characteristics of the car? To ensure their conversions maintain the original driving characteristics of a car, Electrogenic focuses on preserving the precise positioning and functionality of the original components. When a new car model arrives, they prioritize retaining the original engine until they have completed a detailed analysis. One key step involves scanning how the drive shafts are aligned when the vehicle is fully loaded. This careful measurement allows them to replicate those exact angles when installing the replacement powertrain. Proper alignment is crucial for achieving a seamless transition in how the vehicle drives. For instance, in cars like the DMC-12, where the engine rests on a U-shaped crossmember beneath it, Electrogenicfaces unique challenges. They adjust the electric motor to fit at an uncommon angle, collaborating closely with manufacturers to ensure this setup works efficiently for the gearbox’s lubrication needs. By focusing on these meticulous details, Electrogenic succeeds in maintaining the original driving experience, ensuring that the electrified versions of these classic cars handle just as they were designed to. What are some of the technical specifications of the Electrogenic’s conversion kit for the DeLorean? The Electrogenic conversion kit significantly upgrades the technical specifications of the classic DeLorean DMC-12. Instead of the original 2.85-liter V6 engine, which delivered 130 horsepower (154 in Europe) and 207Nm of torque, this kit introduces a powerful 160kW (215 horsepower) electric motor that boosts torque to 310Nm, providing a notable increase in performance. The electric conversion includes a 43kWh battery pack, which allows the vehicle to travel over 150 miles on a single charge. Despite these enhancements, the car’s weight increases by just 40kg. This transformation slashes the 0 to 60 mph acceleration time from an original 9-10 seconds to under five seconds, aligning better with the car’s sporty design. Additionally, a CCS socket supports DC fast charging at 60-70kW, making longer journeys feasible, although the expectation is that most charging will be done at home. The kit also features vehicle-to-load functionality, capable of providing up to 3kW at 240V to power external devices. How does Electrogenic address weight distribution in their conversion of the DeLorean DMC-12? Electrogenic tackles the issue of weight distribution in the DMC-12 conversion with careful planning and strategic placement of components. By primarily positioning the batteries where the original fuel tank was located, they achieved a balanced distribution. This spot is conveniently accessible from underneath the vehicle, using a diamond-shaped opening, allowing for seamless installation. Instead of adding excess weight to the front by filling the luggage compartments with batteries, they opted for a more balanced approach. Additional batteries are placed over the motor in the rear, ensuring that the weight distribution remains almost identical to the original design. By avoiding the front-heavy setup and sticking to the fuel tank and rear motor areas, Electrogenic maintains the vehicle’s handling characteristics without compromising on the steering. What is the role of Electrogenic in converting the DeLorean DMC-12 into an electric vehicle? Electrogenic plays a transformative role in converting the iconic DeLorean DMC-12 into an electric vehicle. Their innovative approach involves developing a comprehensive “drop-in” kit that replaces the traditional internal combustion engine with a modern electric powertrain. This conversion kit is designed to seamlessly fit into the vehicle without needing any structural modifications, offering both simplicity and sophistication in the transformation process. The team ensures that each conversion maintains the car’s original charm while enhancing it with contemporary features. They provide flexibility by allowing customizations like the precise placement of the charge port, installation of air conditioning, and even integrating a custom dashboard screen. Notably, a playful nod to the car’s cinematic heritage is included with the addition of a flux capacitor. Electrogenic prioritizes authenticity in its conversions, striving to keep the driving experience as true to the original as possible. They meticulously scan the positioning of drive shafts with the original engine to preserve the vehicle’s handling characteristics. Importantly, this careful attention ensures that the electric version mimics the weight distribution of the original design closely, making it feel familiar but refreshed. Their conversions are crafted to be upgrades that offer all the benefits of electrification without significant drawbacks. Electrogenic’s mission is to make exhilarating vehicles accessible, keeping beloved classic cars on the road rather than relegated to storage. By doing so, they honor the timeless design and driving pleasure of these vintage vehicles, marrying the past with the innovations of the future. How does the electric conversion affect the DeLorean’s original dynamics and driving experience? “I bought the DeLorean in March 2014 after seeing the video. When I received it, it was in poor condition: the wiring was ratty, the engine was shot, and the clutch was terrible. It had essentially been sitting since the early ’90s. I stripped it down to the frame and restored it. The Buick Grand National engine was rebuilt, but after getting it back in, I still wasn’t happy with it; it wasn’t the smooth driver I wanted. As a result, it sat for a bit, and I started looking at other options,” Jacob said about the initial stages of the project. Jacob’s new decision to embark on this electric journey was fueled by the previous project he was involved in, building his friend Jim Belosic’s “Teslonda,” and a burning desire to master the arcane arts of building his own AC inverter. “After the Tesla-powered Accord project, I really wanted to learn the ins and outs of building an AC inverter from scratch. I have an electronics and computer engineering background, but I hadn’t taken on a complicated mixed-signal project before. It was a stretch goal of sorts,” he said. Jacob selected the 2016 EM57 Nissan Leaf motor, producing 80kW and 250nm, for his soon-to-be electric DeLorean. Once he confirmed it would fit, he pulled the engine out and started grafting the Leaf motor into the car. The motor installation, a critical step, was achieved through custom-designed mounts that cradled the Leaf motor without altering the DeLorean’s frame. While the technical conversion was a major aspect, Jacob was conscious of maintaining the DeLorean’s iconic driving dynamics. The weight distribution was carefully balanced by placing the batteries in a way that mimicked the original setup. This thoughtful arrangement ensured that the car’s steering remained nimble, a nod to its lightweight design by today’s standards. The electric powertrain brought new life to the DeLorean with three distinct driving modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport. Each mode delivered a unique driving experience, with Sport mode offering an immediate power delivery that transformed the car’s performance into something thrilling and dynamic. Jacob found that the electrification not only preserved but enhanced the DeLorean’s handling, making cornering surprisingly tight and the overall driving experience more engaging than ever before. Out on the road, the electrified DeLorean attracted admiration, with onlookers appreciating the seamless blend of classic style and modern technology. Jacob noted that this conversion was not just about performance but also about giving classic car owners a reason to drive their vehicles more often, aligning perfectly with the ethos of preserving the past while embracing the future. How does the performance of the electrified DeLorean compare to the original model? “Jacob’s advice to those considering their own EV conversion projects is clear—do it. His emphasis on the pleasure and reliability of driving an EV-converted vehicle and encouragement to explore the DIY world provides a motivational message for potential converters. Moreover, Jacob’s reflections on the importance of being comfortable with failure and viewing setbacks as learning opportunities offer valuable wisdom for any complex project, not just EV conversions. AC/DMC truly shows what can be achieved when passion meets persistence and a classic car is reborn with an electric heart.” The transformation is not just philosophical but also tangible in terms of performance. The original DMC-12, with its 130hp and 207Nm of torque from a 2.85-liter V6 engine, has been significantly enhanced. Jacob’s project replaces this with a 160kW (215hp) electric motor, delivering 310Nm of torque. This change offers much more potent performance, transforming the driving experience. Battery and Range: The electrified version is equipped with 43kWh of batteries, providing over 150 miles of range. Despite these additions, the car gains only 40kg, maintaining its agility. Acceleration: The result is astonishing. The original car’s 0 to 60 mph time of 9-10 seconds is dramatically reduced to under five seconds, aligning with the sleek, futuristic aesthetic of a low-slung mid-engine car with gullwing doors. Jacob’s journey into EV conversion not only breathes new life into a classic but also demonstrates the thrilling potential of electric performance enhancements. Through this blend of innovation and nostalgia, he showcases what can be achieved when modern technology meets timeless design. How does the weight of the car change with electrification? Despite the added components, the car’s weight increases by only 40kg. What technical modifications have been made to the vehicle? The original engine has been swapped out for a 160kW electric motor, and the car now includes a 43kWh battery pack. What is the change in acceleration performance? The electrified car accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds, a significant improvement from the original’s 9-10 seconds. How does the torque compare between the two models? The electric version provides 310Nm of torque, surpassing the original’s 207Nm. What is the power output difference between the original and electrified models? The electrified model boasts a power output of 215 horsepower, compared to the original’s 130 horsepower. How does the electrification improve the performance of the DeLorean DMC-12? In Reno, Nevada, a software engineer named Jacob Graham has transformed the iconic 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 into an electric beast aptly named AC/DMC. <Jacob’s> journey began with a vision sparked by the “World’s Fastest DeLorean”, fitted with a 3.8L twin-turbo V-6, and featured on Drive with Matt Farah. Acquiring this exact DeLorean in 2014, he quickly realized the classic was far from the smooth, futuristic ride he dreamed of. It was a project begging for a revival, and thus, the seeds for AC/DMC were sown. “I bought the DeLorean in March 2014 after seeing the video. When I received it, it was in poor condition: the wiring was ratty, the engine was shot, and the clutch was terrible. It had essentially been sitting since the early ’90s. I stripped it down to the frame and restored it. The Buick Grand National engine was rebuilt, but after getting it back in, I still wasn’t happy with it; it wasn’t the smooth driver I wanted. As a result, it sat for a bit, and I started looking at other options,” said about the initial stages of the project. Transformation Through Electrification selected the 2016 EM57 Nissan Leaf motor, producing 80kW and 250Nm, for his soon-to-be electric DeLorean. This switch significantly enhanced the car’s performance, offering more torque than the original setup. Once he confirmed it would fit, he pulled the engine out and started grafting the Leaf motor into the car. The motor installation, a critical step, was achieved through custom-designed mounts that cradled the Leaf motor without altering the DeLorean’s frame. “I started the project by removing all the ICE-related components—engine, transaxle, fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump, and HVAC plumbing,” said. “This gave me a sort of blank slate to work with. I separated the body from the frame so I could get to planning the most important parts of the build—drive unit and battery installation. With the body off, I could gain good access to the frame to measure everything. “I started with the drive unit install,” he continued. “I wanted to reuse the factory engine and transaxle mounts without modifying the frame. I designed the mounts in SolidWorks and laser cut them out of 10-gauge mild steel. With the motor in place, I got to work on the axles. The 2016 Nissan Leaf and the DeLorean have the same diameter axle shafts. I did the unthinkable and cut the Leaf axle and DeLorean axle in half and welded them together—each half is keyed into each other mechanically. Then, I TIG welded a DOM tubing sleeve over the join. It has held up well in my four years driving the car.” <Jacob’s> innovative conversion not only rejuvenated the DeLorean but transformed it into a vehicle capable of remarkable acceleration and efficiency. The electric motor offered a new level of responsiveness, reducing the 0-60mph time significantly, aligning with the potential of modern electric drivetrains. The Battery and Inverter Challenge “Next up was the battery install,” said. “The 24kWh Leaf pack has 48 modules. Some measurements showed I could fit 24 of them in the car’s rear between the frame extensions. I designed and installed a battery box out of laser-cut 10-gauge mild steel. The front of the car had enough space to hold 12 modules on top of the K-member, while the original location of the fuel tank also had exactly enough space to hold 12 modules. I designed a bracket that would bolt to the original fuel tank mounting points and hold the modules.” opted for the Zeva EVMS V-3 battery management system because of its compact satellite modules. Given that the pack is divided into three groups across the vehicle, this choice was a perfect fit. To connect the BMS satellite modules to the Leaf battery modules, he designed a custom printed circuit board (PCB). This approach significantly streamlined the BMS wiring. The journey to find the right inverter was a rollercoaster of triumphs and setbacks, spanning a challenging year. ultimately emerged victorious with a functional custom inverter. However, in a pragmatic twist, he later switched to a Nissan Leaf Gen 2 inverter. This shift marked a transition from the exhilarating but erratic experiments of a mad scientist to the dependable solutions of a seasoned engineer. Control was a central theme in the creation of AC/DMC. “Initially, I installed a custom 300kW inverter in the car, based on Arlin Sansome’s design,” he said. This took me a full year. I ran this inverter for several years before transitioning to an 80kW inverter from a Gen 2 Nissan Leaf. The primary reason for this change was peace of mind. Although the 300kW inverter performed admirably, it occasionally became temperamental. Eventually, I reached a point where I simply wanted to enjoy driving the car without any worries. The control system for the 80kW inverter is the Zombieverter VCU from EVBMW.com. I chose this VCU because its software is open source, allowing for customization. Additionally, it supports CCS and ChaDeMo fast DC charging.” Final Touches and Driving Experience The final step involved installing the on-board charger and DC-DC converter. selected a 6.6kW Elcon charger and a DC-DC converter from a Chevy Volt. The Zeva BMS controls the charger, while the Chevy Volt’s DC-DC converter is managed by an Arduino microcontroller running his own software. Both components are mounted on a laser-cut 0.125-inch aluminum “floor” for the DeLorean’s frunk. For the charge port, aimed to maintain the car’s original fueling location—under the hood. He designed and laser-cut a 0.074-inch stainless steel base plate to frame the CCS port, allowing it to mount seamlessly to the DeLorean. <Jacob’s> advice to those considering their own EV conversion projects is clear—do it. His emphasis on the pleasure and reliability of driving an EV-converted vehicle and encouragement to explore the DIY world provides a motivational message for potential converters. Moreover, <Jacob’s> reflections on the importance of being comfortable with failure and viewing setbacks as learning opportunities offer valuable wisdom for any complex project, not just EV conversions. AC/DMC truly shows what can be achieved when passion meets persistence and a classic car is reborn with an electric heart. What is the capacity of the new battery system? The new battery system has a capacity of 43kWh. What is the range of the electrified DeLorean? The upgraded vehicle can travel over 150 miles on a single charge. What is the impact on the car’s weight? Despite the electrification, the vehicle’s weight only increases by about 40kg. How does the electrification affect the car’s acceleration? The electrified DeLorean’s 0-60mph time is improved significantly, dropping from 9-10 seconds to under five seconds. What is the increase in horsepower and torque? The original DeLorean’s 130hp engine is replaced by an electric motor that delivers 215hp, and torque is enhanced from 207Nm to 310Nm. What are the potential benefits of using an electrified DeLorean as a daily transport vehicle? “Looking to the future, Jacob envisions significant upgrades to both the battery pack and the inverter. Aiming for a minimum range of 150 miles, he is considering the 40kWh pack from a 2018+ Nissan Leaf, which would fit well with the existing battery boxes. The possibility of returning to a 300kW custom inverter, paired with an upgrade for more accurate motor positioning feedback, promises to enhance both performance and efficiency. Moreover, the benefits of using an electrified DeLorean as a daily transport vehicle are clear. The vehicle’s modern features, like air conditioning and Apple Car Play, offer comfort and connectivity that align with contemporary needs. Although maneuvering in and out might challenge elegance, the real joy lies in the driving experience, characterized by reliability and a smooth ride. Electrogenic’s successful journey from Bicester to central Londonwithout issues underscores the DeLorean’s capability for daily commuting, reinforcing its practicality with ample range. Jacob’s advice to those considering their own EV conversion projects is clear—do it. His emphasis on the pleasure and reliability of driving an EV-converted vehicle and encouragement to explore the DIY world provides a motivational message for potential converters. Furthermore, Jacob’s reflections on the importance of being comfortable with failure and viewing setbacks as learning opportunities offer valuable wisdom for any complex project, not just EV conversions. AC/DMC truly shows what can be achieved when passion meets persistence and a classic car is reborn with an electric heart.” What is the range and reliability of the electrified DeLorean? The electrified DeLorean demonstrates impressive range and reliability, as evidenced by a successful round trip from Bicester to central London, ensuring it can handle typical commuting distances without issues. Is the electrified DeLorean practical for regular commutes? The vehicle is highly practical for regular commutes, with a design and features that support daily transportation needs. Does the electrified DeLorean have modern features suitable for daily use? Yes, it includes modern technology such as Apple Car Play, offering connectivity and convenience for today’s drivers. How comfortable is the electrified DeLorean for daily use? The electrified DeLorean is designed for comfort, with features like air conditioning to counteract the heat from its rear engine, making it a suitable option for everyday driving. Why do some classic car owners choose to convert their vehicles to electric? “Jacob’s advice to those considering their own EV conversion projects is clear—do it. His emphasis on the pleasure and reliability of driving an EV-converted vehicle and encouragement to explore the DIY world provides a motivational message for potential converters. Moreover, Jacob’s reflections on the importance of being comfortable with failure and viewing setbacks as learning opportunities offer valuable wisdom for any complex project, not just EV conversions. For many classic car enthusiasts, the allure of electrifying their beloved vehicles stems from a desire to actually drive them more frequently. Often, these cars sit idle in garages because their original engines don’t meet modern expectations of performance and reliability. By converting to electric, owners find their cars not only maintain their classic charm but also gain a new lease on life with improved drivability. Furthermore, certain classic models, like the much-adored DeLorean, are particularly ripe for conversion. The widespread appeal of these vehicles, coupled with the limitations of their original engines, makes them perfect candidates for electrification. This transformation allows them to transcend the niche of car enthusiasts and become accessible to a broader audience. AC/DMC truly shows what can be achieved when passion meets persistence and a classic car is reborn with an electric heart.” How does electrification affect the driving experience of classic cars? Electric conversions aim to replicate the original driving feel of classic cars while improving their functionality and appeal, allowing owners to enjoy a nostalgic yet enhanced experience. Why is the DeLorean a popular choice for electrification? The DeLorean is a favored candidate for conversion due to its widespread appeal and the limitations of its original engine, making electrification an attractive performance upgrade. What benefits does electrification provide for classic cars? Electrification enhances drivability and reliability, encouraging owners to enjoy their classic cars on the road more frequently. Why do some classic car owners not drive their cars? Many classic car owners keep their vehicles stored in garages due to concerns about practicality and reliability, leading to them rarely being driven.
EVbuilder EVEducation EV DICTIONARY | The Comprehensive Guide to EV Jargon—Version 1! If you are coming from the world of ubiquitous LS engine swaps, turbo boost, and ignition timing, all the electric vehicle jargon being thrown around […] Tim Cachelin January 07, 2023
EVbuilder EVFeatures Project Arizona Desert: A 1990 Defender 110 Reborn with a Tesla Electric Drivetrain 1990 Defender 110 with an Electric Tesla Drivetrain Named after its new home base, Project Arizona Desert is a 1990 Defender 110 that has been […] E.C.D. Automotive Design January 07, 2025
EVbuilder EVFeatures Unveiling the Tesla-Powered Range Rover Classic Electric Conversion Underneath its timeless exterior, this fully road-legal Range Rover masterpiece is powered by a Tesla-sourced electric drive system by British specialists, Inverted. The ‘Rangie’ boasts […] Jerome Andre January 01, 2024
EVbuilder EVEducation WHAT YOU TORQUEIN’ WIT? - EV Gear Reduction and Driveline Setup EV Gear Reduction and Driveline Setup Unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, the vast majority of EVs on the road today do not have a […] Legacy EV September 06, 2023