A well-regarded specialist provider of parts and components for Porsche, Design911, has shared comments about why converting heritage prestige cars is often a complex process and how many trade and retail clients raise concerns about how modifications will impact a vehicle's performance and value.
Design911, a leading supplier of Porsche OEM parts, aftermarket, and performance parts, has 20 years of expertise. It provides bespoke sourcing services for rare, unusual, and hard-to-find components and an extensive catalogue of parts available for dispatch to clients across the UK and Europe.
Analysing Trends in the Conversion of Vintage Cars to Electric Motors
Porsche owners and collectors are increasingly considering the option of converting their vehicles due to a number of factors, including:
Increased costs of travel due to carbon emissions zones.
The popularity and availability of electric vehicles (EVs) and components.
Focuses on environmental standards and air pollution.
Greater reliability and longevity of modern electric motors.
While the original governmental proposals to levy outright bans on the sale of new petrol and diesel engines have been postponed several times and may stall further, the current position is that in around 11 years, drivers will be unable to purchase fuelled vehicles as new.
That does not imply that existing cars will become illegal but has prompted some distinct changes among drivers keen to ensure their treasured classics and high-value vintage Porsches will remain compliant and legal long into the future – especially if servicing, maintenance, and components for older petrol and diesel cars become less accessible.
This relatively new focus means that while only around 1% of classic cars have been partially or fully converted, as many as 25% of restorers, collectors, and drivers approve of converting classic cars to cleaner, greener electric motors.
Expert Insights Into the Complexities of Electric Conversions for Older Porsches
Anthony Malone, Head of Sales Strategies at Design911, explains that converting a fuelled engine to an electric motor may not be straightforward, regardless of the reason behind the conversion.
He says, ‘Classic and vintage Porsches can, in many instances, be converted into eco-friendly electric cars, but older cars are typically designed without the stability to cope with the significant weight increase that an electric drivetrain adds.
Depending on the Porsche model you own, you may also find that the engine bay simply doesn’t have the space to accommodate an electric motor – or, at least, a motor with the power you might require to maintain a smooth, enjoyable driving experience.
While conversions can be hugely successful and breathe fresh life into older Porsches, including those that haven't been well maintained, this type of project can take time, with a key need to work with a professional conversion expert who can fine-tune the balance, steering and suspension.
Many Porsche enthusiasts we work with opt for an electric conversion to ensure a classic Porsche remains roadworthy or to repurpose an older Porsche to extend its life – most common where the original combustion engine has failed or would require a complete replacement to bring it back into working condition.’
Design911 Comments on the Pros and Cons of Classic Porsche Electric Conversions
Anthony adds, 'The most-cited advantages of electric car conversions are that a classic car that is likely to end up as a non-driven showpiece can be reimagined into a modern, eco-friendly vehicle that costs very little to run, and can travel in and out of major city centres throughout the UK without attracting emissions-related charges.
Likewise, as interest in EVs continues to grow, the availability of servicing is likely to become far better, whereas specialists providing maintenance and restoration for vintage-fueled cars could decline in the years to come.
Conversely, the major drawbacks relate to the conversion cost, with a modification to a vehicle like a Porsche Carrera with an estimated cost of up to £50,000.
It is tricky to provide accurate information about how a conversion can impact the market value of a vintage Porsche since this depends on the buyer's perspective. Some may feel that removing the original engine reduces the authenticity of a legacy vehicle, whereas others might prefer a Porsche that doesn't just look incredible but will provide ongoing usage.
Our advice, as always, is to approach any major modifications with care, particularly if you own or drive a rarer or exclusive vintage Porsche.
Engine replacements should only be completed with the highest-quality parts possible and with full oversight of how the modifications to your Porsche will influence its future market value and driving experience.’
Porsche owners and trade professionals can contact Design911 directly for further information or browse kits, components, and specialist parts through its online catalogue.
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Media Contact:
Anthony Malone
+44 (0)208 500 8811
About Design911
Design911 has established itself as the market leader, offering trade and retail customers a full range of OEM and aftermarket Porsche parts for general servicing and rebuild as well as restoration and tuning for the UK, European and world-wide markets. The Design911.co.uk website now sports a Porsche parts finder to help you get the exact aftermarket Porsche part your need. The company's impressive 34,000 sq. ft Essex headquarters comprise sales department, warehouse, workshop and body shop, as well as a showroom of classic Porsches for sale. We pride ourselves that we will be the company that can supply 'every part for every Porsche'.
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Source Company: https://www.design911.co.uk
Published by: Steve OBrien