Imagine a vintage T1 Camper, lovingly restored, yet seldom driven due to its underwhelming and unreliable traditional engine. This was the state of ‘Daisy’ before her owners decided it was time for a change. If you missed the first part of this transformation saga, be sure to check it out to understand the camper’s origins with its original powertrain. But the real question for Daisy’s owners was how to enjoy their beloved camper more frequently without the limitations of the outdated engine.
Teaming Up for Transformation
Enter Kit Lacey and his team at eDub Services, specialists in breathing new, electric life into classical vehicles. Reaching out to Kit was a decision motivated by a desire for reliability and modern performance that only an electric conversion could offer. As Kit succinctly points out, the owners were fond of their T1, yet “They love it to bits, but they don’t love driving it!” – a sentiment that would soon change.
Engineering a Modern Classic
In the detailed account of Daisy’s transformation, Kit dives into the intricacies of the conversion process. He discusses the careful balance between maintaining vintage aesthetics, such as the retro dashboard, and integrating modern functionalities like the revamped kitchen area. He also sheds light on the technical considerations of the conversion, such as how the vehicle’s weight informs battery size and placement, ensuring optimal range and performance.
Boasting a commendable 175-mile range on a 62kWh battery, Daisy was poised for a new life on the road. But this battery capacity isn’t the end of the road. Future enhancements include additional storage for extra mileage, promising an impressive 170 miles of real-life range. This foretells not only journeys of substantial distance but also frequent and spirited use of the camper.
Revolutionizing Rear Suspension
A significant overhaul during the electrification process involves replacing the original rear suspension to accommodate a Tesla drivetrain – a state-of-the-art upgrade that yields both strength and efficiency. The compact nature of the electric motor also enables clever use of space, repurposing the former engine bay for the primary battery pack – a sneak peek of which we anticipate in an upcoming video.
eDub Services: Pioneering Electric Conversions
Kit Lacey’s mission extends beyond individual projects. His expertise in electric conversions is gaining traction worldwide. With collaborations spanning continents, his passion for redefining classic vehicles for the modern era is creating buzz and fostering partnerships. For those interested in the broader scope of Kit’s endeavors, he has penned articles detailing his journey, sharing insights from specific collaborations and the growing sphere of electric vehicle conversions.
Through meticulous attention to detail and an embracing of cutting-edge electric technologies, Daisy’s transformation represents a step forward in sustainable automotive innovation, merging the charm of the past with the promise of the future.
