Pre-conversion (April 27)First charge (June 27)After first ride5 of 8 batteriesMid-wiringMotor mount
OwnerKen Parsons
LocationKansas City, Missouri US map
Web/EmailWebPage email image
Vehicle1973 Volkswagen Type III Variant (Squareback)
This car was given to me by a friend who didn't want to deal w/ the issues of an old ICE vehicle
MotorAdvanced DC 203-06-4001A Brushless DC
48-120V, 10-30 hp
DrivetrainManual
ControllerCurtis 1221C
Batteries8 Trojan T-1275, 12.00 Volt, Lead-Acid, Flooded
At 656lbs and for space considerations, I went w/ 12V. I am told my performance and range would improve w/ a pack of 8V or 6V batteries, but I'm finding that it suits my need for a roundtrip commute of 18-20 miles with LOTS of hills.
System Voltage96 Volts
ChargerQuickcharge 96V
On-board charger which takes about 4 hours from 50% depth of discharge (this includes about 1/2 hr to one hour of float charging).
HeaterNone, but the toaster coil idea I may try this fall.
DC/DC ConverterAstrodyne
InstrumentationVoltmeter and Ammeter
Top Speed65 MPH (104 KPH)
I have not taken the car this fast, but I can comfortably cruise around 50mph in third gear.
AccelerationIn first it is quite quick, though I tend to start in second, which is sufficient to keep up with traffic.
Range20 Miles (32 Kilometers)
This is to 50% discharge, as I go to/from work and charge immediately when I get home (to avoid sulfation over time and extend the life of my batteries). With all the hills in Kansas City, my range is a bit more limited than those of you in flatter areas.
EV Miles
Start:88,600 Miles (142,557 Kilometers)
Current:89,000 Miles (143,201 Kilometers)
Total:400 Miles (643 Kilometers)
Seating Capacity5 adults
Curb Weight2,500 Pounds (1,136 Kilograms)
Tires4 165-R15
Conversion TimeActual physical labor: 75-100 hours, essentially w/in 16 concentrated days in mid-May

Actual mental labor/research: unknown, was told about this idea 3 months ago and haven't stopped thinking about it
Conversion Cost$7,336, which includes batteries, misc supplies, shipping costs, etc. This is the actual number, not an estimate (but doesn't include front brake overhaul, which was $500, and the motor mount for $350).
I did this conversion solo, but had some help lifting the motor for installation. I knew little to nothing about electrical work for cars 3 months ago. This site, amongst others, was the source of knowledge I relied on daily during my major conversion time in May. For those perusing EVs, just jump in, it is worth the time and effort.

code by jerry