This 1979 Volkswagen Beetle convertible is Kimberly’s fourth Beetle. Her first car was a Beetle and she got this bug from her uncle, who has owned it for the last 20 years, but it has sat in the garage for the last 5 years. Now, she would like it to become her “fun” commuter. 

The 1585 cc engine is still in place, along with a four-speed manual gearbox. It runs well but needs a little love, and electrification would be the best way to get the bug the 21st-century cool vibe it lost with time. 

No recent restoration has been conducted. According to Kimberly and her husband, Mike, “the beetle is a 6.5/10. The exterior and interior need some work. It runs and drives just fine today, other than constantly leaking oil and such, which is part of the reason we'd like to go electric.” 

Kimberly’s expectations are realistic and respectful of the spirit of the VW bug. She wants the beetle to be as powerful as today, with a top speed of 60mph and 50 miles of range. After the conversion, she will use it for short hauls, around-town beach cars, top-downs, and grocery getters in San Clemente. “The car is never going to leave our neighborhood.” 

They have no preference for motors or batteries and would most likely keep the four-speed manual transaxle but would be open to direct drive.

The vehicle equipment is very basic, with heating but no power steering or AC. Kimberly would consider upgrading the convertible with power steering and AC as options. They would probably want the dashboard and gauges to remain analog with a basic BMS display embedded. 

Neither Kimberly nor Mike is interested in participating in the EV conversion process. They will ship the car to a converter in California or a neighboring state.

There are some nominal exterior issues, paint, small dents, all window gaskets need to be replaced due to deteriorating rubber. The brakes, suspension, wheels, and tires are fine. Kimberly is open to suggestions for restoration work along with the conversion, including replacing the top and upgrading the interior and paint. Restoration work could be done later after the conversion and Kimberly will consider all proposals, with or without exterior/interior upgrades. 

She will charge the beetle at home overnight – they already have a Level 2 charger for their 2019 Tesla Model 3 performance. 

No towing requirements.