Since the government’s announcement to ban the sale of new petrol or diesel vehicles by 2035 and as more electric and hybrid cars start to roll off production lines, converting classic cars to electric powered motors is increasing.
In fact, searches for ‘electric classic cars’ have increased by 40% in the past month as the rising popularity of converting classic cars to electric power goes beyond the impending petrol and diesel ban and it reflects a broader shift towards sustainable and innovative solutions in the automotive sector.
The experts at Heritage Classic Car Insurance have offered insights into the factors driving this trend and whether classic car enthusiasts should consider embracing the electric revolution.
The classic car electric conversion revolution – should you consider converting?
Classic cars have an undeniable charm and nostalgia associated with them, but as time goes on, the challenges of maintaining their original internal combustion engines become more apparent. Many classic car enthusiasts find themselves grappling with the dilemma of preserving the authentic driving experience while also addressing the inevitable wear and tear on aging engines. Another compelling reason to convert a classic to electric is to give the car a new lease of life, without the need for a full engine rebuild.
Heritage customer Peter Brazier, who was the owner of the first Ferrari 308 to have a Tesla motor installed, said, ‘The engine was getting old; every summer I had to replace parts of the fuel system; the garage always smelled of oil. It was getting to that point where I had to do something with it: either sell it, or rebuild the engine, one thing or the other.“
Financial incentives are another factor that might be driving people to converting. All classic cars which are over 40 years old are eligible to become tax and MOT-exempt, even if they’ve had their petrol or diesel engine replaced with a battery. That means owners could benefit from the perks of an electric engine but still have the tax advantages of a classic.
Insurance for classic cars also tends to be far cheaper than insurance for a modern vehicle, although this does vary between different marques and models. In the past, insurers have viewed converted classics as higher risk due to increased repair costs or replacement of specialist parts, but this landscape has evolved. Some insurers now offer specialised, tailored policies for electric conversions and they recognise the commitment of owners to preserve their vehicles.
Classic car owners should document the entire conversion process. Insurers will often need to know the full conversion cost, as well as needing official certification showing the vehicle has been converted professionally and that it’s registered as an electric car with the DVLA.
Andy McDonald, Underwriting & Product Development Manager at Heritage Car Insurance, said, “As far as the future goes, I do see an increase in classic cars being converted to electric: it’s inevitable.
“There are more garages around the UK who will now do the conversion including London Electric Cars & Electric Classic Cars.“
He added, ‘The introduction of E10 fuel will also have an impact as it will probably push classic car owners to look at a conversion, and the cost will start to come down as the technology gets cheaper. And, with the increasing infrastructure around the country to cater for charging needs, electric conversions will be a very attractive option to a lot of owners.”
Although 2035 will mark the beginning of a new electric era, you’ll still be able to buy petrol and diesel cars which are already on the road. That’s good news for classic car enthusiasts – it means the sale and use of many classic cars will still be allowed.