The trend of converting classic cars into electric vehicles is gaining momentum, but often comes with a hefty price tag. However, one particular conversion project stands out for its affordability and impressive performance. The electric Porsche 924S showcased in the EVTuners video proves that cheap and cheerful EV conversions are indeed possible.
The story behind this project is as intriguing as the end result. Karl Nichols, the owner of the 1988 Porsche 924S, stumbled upon the red sports car that had been languishing in his mechanic’s backyard for 15 years. Seeing the potential in the neglected vehicle, he snapped it up at a bargain price and set about transforming it into an electric powerhouse.
The key to this conversion project was finding the perfect donor EV, which turned out to be a 2023 Nissan Leaf with low mileage and well-maintained components. With the electric bits from the Leaf seamlessly integrated into the classic Porsche, the result is a high-performing electric vehicle that offers a real-world highway range of around 200 miles and nationwide charging accessibility.
The conversion process involved removing the original engine and transmission, and replacing them with the Leaf’s 214-horsepower electric motor. The battery pack, with a capacity of 60-kilowatt hours, was cleverly split between the front and rear of the vehicle. The Resolve EV controller ensures smooth integration of all components, while the original CHAdeMO charging port remains functional.
In terms of performance, the electric Porsche 924S delivers a zero to 60 miles per hour acceleration time of around five seconds, comparable to the Leaf’s 5.5-second sprint. The driving range of approximately 200 miles on the highway and even more in urban settings mirrors the Leaf’s EPA rating of 212 miles. The regenerative braking system adds a touch of customization, allowing the driver to choose between coasting and aggressive braking.
While the project is still a work in progress, with plans to add heating and cooling systems in the future, the electric Porsche 924S is a testament to the possibilities of affordable EV conversions. With a total timeline of about a year and a half, Karl Nichols has successfully transformed a forgotten classic into a modern, eco-friendly marvel that offers both performance and practicality.