Modern technology continues to have a major impact on many industries, and one such impact on the classic car world may shock some owners: The rise of "electric" classic cars. As more of the world continues to rely on sustainable forms of energy like electricity, even classic cars are seeing some upgrades here that allow for their owners to continue utilizing them while maintaining far more eco-friendly practices.
At Andersen Restoration Parts, we're here to offer a huge range of classic car restoration parts for all your needs, from front-end rebuild kits to suspension rebuild kids, control arm bushing sets and more. Here's what we mean when we talk about "electric" classic cars, some of the initial benefits they've brought to this industry, and some of the drawbacks that also still need to be worked through.
What Do We Mean By "Electric" Classic Cars?
Some of our readers might be a bit puzzled at the very listing of these words together. Classic cars were all manufactured well before electricity was a reliable option for power, so how can you combine them?
The answer is quite simple: Essentially, owners have the opportunity to replace their classic car's traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor. This swap allows for a much more powerful, efficient engine that runs on electricity rather than gasoline. In many cases, these cars are still completely street legal and work like any other electric car, but with a classic look and design that still stands out on the road.
Initial Impact and Positives of Electric Classic Cars
The initial impact of these electric-swaps has been incredibly positive in terms of the industry. Many owners have found that they can take their beloved classic cars and upgrade them to increase efficiency while still having plenty of power and performance.
This has been especially helpful for owners of classic cars that have a list of issues or need extensive repairs. By simply swapping the engine to an electric one, they can still get their car running while avoiding all the added costs and expenses associated with repairing an old internal combustion engine.
The initial influx of these electric classics has also led to increased interest in the market overall. Classic car owners have found themselves with more opportunities to show off their cars, as well as more options for repair and service when needed.
This influx has also led to those who were only interested in classic cars from a distance now having an opportunity to join the ranks of ownership without having to worry about some of the common issues associated with old internal combustion engines.
Drawbacks of Electric Classic Cars
While there are plenty of positives to electric classic cars, it's still important to remember that any conversion process is not without its drawbacks. The biggest drawback here is often the cost associated with converting a classic car from an internal combustion engine to an electric one. Some people find that the cost of buying and installing an electric engine far outweighs any potential savings they might gain from improved performance or efficiency.
Another issue here is the possible limited driving range that might be associated with some of these cars. Depending on the battery size and design, many electric classic cars might not last as long as traditional gas-powered ones, meaning there could be a need for more frequent charging stops.
Depending on the car's age and design, an electric conversion might also lead to certain issues with compatibility or overall performance. It's important to do your research and consult with a professional before attempting any sort of engine swap or conversion process, as the wrong one could lead to further damage or issues down the line.
Finally, the simple lack of full electric charging infrastructure in many areas makes it more difficult for electric classic cars to take full advantage of their new design. If you live in an area with a limited number of charging stations, you might have to plan ahead a bit more than you would with a normal car.
Overall, electric classic cars are proving to be an interesting option for those looking to upgrade their vehicles or just get into the hobby in general. While there are some potential drawbacks that should be kept in mind, the positives often outweigh any negatives and make electric classic cars a great option for those who want to take advantage of modern technology while still keeping their beloved classic cars in use.
For more here, or to learn about any of our classic car restoration parts or services, speak to our team at Andersen Restoration Parts today.