Can You Convert an Electric Car into a Hybrid Vehicle?

Converting an electric car into a hybrid vehicle is a challenging task. The primary reason for this challenge is the design of the car's power system, which is tightly integrated with the existing architecture. While it can be done, it comes with several considerations and trade-offs. Here's a detailed look at the feasibility and options for such a conversion.

The Feasibility of Conversion

Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles (HEVs) have fundamentally different power systems. EVs are designed around a battery pack, electric motor, and accompanying electronics, while HEVs integrate a gasoline engine with an electric motor and a battery. Due to the different requirements and space constraints, converting one to the other is not straightforward. Typically, HEVs have more space and systems designed for additional power sources, making them a better candidate for conversion.

Challenges and Design Constraints

One of the primary challenges is the placement of the battery. In an EV, the battery pack is often placed in a dedicated space, tailored to the car's structure. For a hybrid conversion, finding a suitable location for the battery without compromising the car's aesthetics and structural integrity is difficult. Additionally, the battery should match the technological specifications of the existing hybrid setup, which may be incompatible with an off-the-shelf EV battery.

Options for Conversion

There are a few options available for those interested in converting an EV to a hybrid. The most accessible and cost-effective method involves using electric hub motor/generators to power the rear wheels while relying on the existing internal combustion engine (ICE) for the front wheels. This method retains some of the benefits of a hybrid while minimizing the complexity and cost.

The second option involves a custom transmission and a custom electric motor-generator. Companies like YASA offer high-performance electric motors, and custom transmission manufacturers can fit these components to a specific vehicle. This method is more complex and expensive but offers better fuel efficiency and possibly increased performance. The combination of both options—custom transmission and hub motors—provides the best balance between efficiency and performance.

Possible Workarounds and Pusher Trailers

While direct conversion is complex, there are workarounds, such as pusher trailers. These trailers are electric vehicles that pull a powered trailer. The trailer is used for short-range travel, making the EV mode range more or less irrelevant. However, this approach is not ideal for long-term use due to the added weight and potential inefficiency of the setup.

Generators and Fuel Efficiency Concerns

If you consider adding a generator to the existing setup, it is essential to weigh the added weight and reduced efficiency. Electric vehicles are not typically as efficient as gasoline vehicles in terms of energy storage and range. Adding a generator significantly reduces the overall range and efficiency. Therefore, such a setup may not be practical unless you are certain of the usage patterns and are willing to accept the trade-offs.

Hybrid Options Instead

A more straightforward and practical approach is to opt for a hybrid vehicle, particularly one that is plug-in hybrid. These vehicles can run on electric power for shorter distances and switch to the gasoline engine for longer trips. This method eliminates the need for converting and provides a balanced solution without the complexity and potential drawbacks of a direct conversion.

Conclusion

The feasibility of converting an electric car to a hybrid vehicle is limited and comes with numerous challenges. Options like using electric hub motor/generators for the rear wheels or a custom transmission and motor are available but are more complex and expensive. Additionally, considerations around added weight, efficiency, and maintenance are crucial. For most users, a hybrid vehicle, possibly in the form of a plug-in hybrid, would be a more practical and efficient solution.