Classic Cars To Go Electric?

It was a big deal when Volkswagen filed the trademark paperwork for a new line of electric cars and launched AC conversion kits for existing fuel vehicles.

E-Samba and E-Golf are just a few of the names that have been set aside by German-based car manufacturers for their future plans. Conversion kits will be used to bridge the existing cars. The question is now: What will happen to the classics that we grew up with?

Although there's no word on when the models will be officially released, it is a rare glimpse into the boardroom at a major auto manufacturer. They clearly believe that fuel will eventually be replaced by AC and they are working on their plan B "early".

The idea of a silent engine in a classic vehicle is nearly too much for the average enthusiast to contemplate. magnets, AC power, can't replace the sound, smell, or handling. These features, along with the appearance and feel, make the cars we love so special.

However, it is a reality check. While car enthusiasts, myself included, would love to keep the status quo intact, climate research is forcing the public and car manufacturers to think about the future. Early signs point to a boom in EV sales.

For example, take a look at EV vehicle sales. Globally, there were just 17,000 EVs sold in 2010. The number of EVs sold jumped to 7,200,000 in 2019, thanks to the adoption of the technology by China, Europe, and the United States. This represents 2.6% global sales but it is a rapid shift in the way we buy cars.

Australia is no exception. According to the Tesla Owners Club, local stock levels have increased by 333 percent in response to recent sales. This, combined with greater access to AC charging stations, is laying the foundations.

Australia still lags behind the US and Europe in terms of EV sales. Many countries have already enacted mandatory EV sales quotas. It is not surprising that Australia won't adopt similar legislation within the next five to ten years.

In recent years, classic-EV conversion companies have seen a rise in popularity. This trend will likely continue as technology becomes more affordable and more accessible. Volkswagen and EV-conversion firm eClassics have partnered together to invest billions in their future electric plans. Volkswagen now supports the German EV manufacturer, which is well-known for their electric Beetle and Kombi kit designs. They also support the company's sales network and genuine parts and service support.

The obvious downside of the EV revolution for enthusiasts is that it could mean the end of their classic or sports car's road. These vehicles are powered by a petrol-powered combustion engine. It's unlikely that their owners will feel the same joy behind the wheel of an electric version. Although this is an intriguing compromise, the idea of swapping out a petrol-driven engine for an entirely electric one for sports cars can be daunting for traditional enthusiasts. This 'transplant' would not only make the car a new machine but it would also allow it to be ready to adapt to a changing world where petrol is no longer available forever.

For car lovers, especially those who love classics, the future looks scary. Although it is likely that the petrol bowser will eventually be turned off, I would rather have a classic with an electric drivetrain than none at all.

Although classic cars becoming electric is something many vintage car enthusiasts will not want to see, it may be the only way of preserving vintage vehicles. When petrol cars are no longer allowed to operate, our last hope of preserving vintage cars will be for them to go electric.