Converting a Porsche 914 to an Electric Vehicle

Due to rising fuel costs and increased environmental concerns, electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more popular. Efficiency is the key to building any worthwhile vehicle, but it is especially important when fabricating a car with limited range like an EV. Our progress in converting a 1973 Porsche 914 from conventional gasoline power to an all electric drive and the decision making process involved in its construction are described. Our goal is to create a moving test bed that is fully upgradeable as well as to outfit the fastest, most efficient electric car possible using lead acid batteries. It will serve as a rolling classroom, not only for those building the initial car but also for future students who will eventually modify and advance its design. The main calculations involved were deciding the tradeoffs between components as they affect overall efficiency. The choices included which controller to use, how to power the accessory system, how to route the power cables and which batteries to install, among several other things.