Electric Conversions for American Classics

There’s nothing quite like cruising down the open road in your iconic American classic. Maybe it’s a ‘69 Mustang or a vintage Chevrolet. But there’s something about the way a classic feels: the design, the nostalgia, the unmistakable character that modern cars just don’t have. The reason we love these cars isn’t because of their engines; it’s the stories they tell, the era they come from, and the way they make us feel like we’re a part of something bigger. Now, imagine that same timeless car, but powered by the future—an electric powertrain that doesn’t take away from its charm, but adds new life to it. This is the promise of EV conversions for American classics: keeping the spirit alive while moving it forward.

Why EV Conversion for Classic Cars?

The draw of classic cars is timeless, but maintaining the original engines isn’t. One of the main reasons classic cars end up sitting in driveways forever is because they require rare parts that have gone out of production since their time—the other main reasons are the constant upkeep, and vintage levels of gas efficiency. An EV conversion doesn’t just solve these problems; it opens up a whole new world of performance and reliability while keeping that classic charm intact. You get the best of both worlds: iconic design with modern engineering.

In North America alone, the classic car market is expected to grow at a 5.4% CAGR through 2030, hitting nearly $18 billion. This growing market means that vintage vehicles are gaining even more cultural and economic value, and EV conversions are an ideal way to preserve and enhance these assets for the long haul. With EVs becoming mainstream, electric classic cars are on the leading edge of this trend of merging nostalgia with innovation.

Classic Car EV Market Trends

The North American classic car market is expanding, and EV conversions are riding this wave of growth. In 2021, electric conversions were relatively niche, but the demand is shifting fast. Conversion expos have nearly doubled in size every year since then.

Here’s what’s trending in the classic car EV space:

1. Growing Range of Conversion Kits and Options: The market is now filled with options for conversion kits, allowing you to customize your car’s new powertrain according to your needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for a basic kit just to get your classic’s wheels turning again, or a high-performance setup for peak horsepower, there are options at every level.

2. Advancements in Battery Technology: One of the biggest challenges in EV conversions is battery capacity and fit. Thankfully, the technology is advancing, and new batteries are becoming more compact and efficient. This allows for better range and more installation flexibility for a wider range of cars.

3. Rise in Specialist Shops for EV Conversions: More auto shops are specializing in EV conversions, giving classic car owners access to experts who know exactly how to preserve the car’s original aesthetics while upgrading the powertrain. These specialists are popping up in major cities, and they’re making it easier than ever to find trusted experts for your EV conversion.

Myths and Key Benefits of Converting Electric Classic Cars

Let’s address the elephant in the garage: some classic car fans worry that EV conversions will “ruin” their car’s authenticity. But here’s the reality:

Myth #1: “Electric cars don’t have the same power”

This one’s out of gas. Electric motors offer instant torque, giving your classic more power off the line than its old engine likely ever could. You’ll be surprised at how lively your car feels after the switch.

Benefit: High Performance with Low Maintenance

Electric conversions offer far more than just quiet engines. EV motors can provide instant torque, which means quicker acceleration and smoother handling, making your classic car feel like it’s brand new. It’s a faster, more efficient ride that still keeps its iconic appeal.

Plus, electric motors are much simpler than combustion engines—fewer parts mean fewer things to go wrong. This reduces long-term maintenance headaches and costs, so you can focus more on enjoying the ride than worrying about repairs.

Myth #2: “Converting to EV is too expensive”

While EV conversions aren’t cheap, they’re an investment that can pay off in resale value, reliability, and reduced maintenance. That means whether you keep it or sell it, a conversion ends up paying for itself. And as conversion technology advances, prices are continuing to come down, making it a more accessible option for classic car enthusiasts who want a greener, meaner ride.

Benefit: Increased Resale Value and Investment Potential

With the classic car market booming and sustainability on everyone’s minds, electric-converted classics are becoming a unique asset. As more buyers seek eco-friendly options, an EV conversion could increase your car’s value, especially as the market embraces green technology.

A well-executed EV conversion can make a classic car more desirable for future buyers, who appreciate the style but also want a vehicle that’s adapted to modern standards. It’s an investment that offers both financial and environmental returns.

Myth #3: “It ruins the driving experience”

An EV conversion doesn’t have to change what makes your classic car feel special. Many conversions preserve the original transmission, interior, exterior, and other features while maintaining weight distribution, so you get the best of both worlds—the iconic feeling of driving a classic, combined with the performance and reliability of an electric powertrain.

Benefit: Enhanced Driving Experience and Longevity

An electric conversion breathes new life into your classic car, enhancing the driving experience in ways you might not expect. Electric motors deliver instant torque, providing quicker acceleration and a more responsive feel behind the wheel. The smoother, quieter ride allows you to enjoy your car’s unique character without the noise and vibrations of a combustion engine.

Moreover, the improved weight distribution from battery placement can enhance handling and stability, making your classic car even more enjoyable on winding roads and even race tracks.

By converting to electric, you’re not only preserving the essence of your classic car but also elevating its performance and extending its driving life by many years (20 years or more!). It’s about embracing modern technology to enhance the timeless joy of driving a classic.