What happens when you combine the most iconic vehicle design of all time with modern electric engine technology? You get the Zelectric Beetle: proof that electric cars can have as much style and grace as anything else on the road.
Californian inventor David Benardo has created a truly special car, capable of 110 miles and infinite smiles on one charge. Combining classic style and electric efficiency, Benardo’s electric Beetle conversion project aims to change the way we view electric cars
In theory, it’s quite a simple idea: take an iconic and beloved classic car, remove the outdated engine, and fit it with a modern electric motor that’s reliable and zero-emission.
In practice, however, it’s not always quite so simple.
Despite the potential setbacks and roadblocks, Californian inventor David Benardo has found a way to mate timeless style with modern technology with his Zelectric VW Beetle, and now he aims to make it available to everyone.
All it requires is a 1958-66 Volkswagen, some Lithium Ion batteries, and an electric drive system, and the Beetle is transformed from a smoky, outdated, air-cooled flat-four-cylinder to a sleek and modern electric.
According to Zelectric Motors’ website, their Franken-Beetle is capable of 90+ miles-per-hour and will last an average of 90 to 110 miles on one charge. The space where the gasoline gauge used to be is now occupied by a battery charge percentage to ease range anxiety.
Of course, with all of the additional electric car equipment fitted to an old platform, some modifications are needed to make it drivable. Zelectric updates the suspension to accommodate the extra 300-lbs. that the upgrades add, and fits disc brakes to ease any fears of stopping within a reasonable distance.
After all of these upgrades are fitted, this little lightning bug weights about 1000-lbs. less than a Nissan Leaf, and the difference in looks is unquestionably favorable for the VW.
Also, as a first in the electric car market, the Zelectric is available with the Beetle’s original 4-speed manual transmission, which after the upgrades is less of a transmission and more of an engine aggression selector. Changing gears alters the engine output, so lower gears allow for more torque and more spirited driving.
Pricing figures have not been released yet for Zelectric Beetles, but expect a fully-modified version to start at around $45,000.
With electric cars popping up everywhere and classic Volkswagens rising in value, it seems there’s no better time than now to snag yourself a timeless automotive icon with modern usability.
