EV conversions for Morgan and Triumph
UK firm Electrogenic has converted a Stag and 4/4 to run on battery power - with manual gearboxes
Oxfordshire firm Electrogenic is bidding to get more people excited about EVs with a brace of 'world first' conversions, a Triumph Stag and Morgan 4/4 that use battery power and manual gearboxes. Officially the first electric Stag – authenticated by the owner’s club, no less – and almost certainly the first for a 4/4, the work further demonstrates how even some of the most ‘traditional’ offerings can be adapted for a tailpipe-free future. It seems nothing is too old for a battery pack, with this Stag hailing from 1976, and the 4/4 1957.
Of course, the news might frustrate as many people as it impresses, what with these being two resolutely popular British classics – not to mention the 3.0-litre V8 which had to make way in the Stag. But for those who want to continue enjoying their cars in urban environments, these conversions potentially make sense. Because let’s face it, even if emissions limits don’t currently block classics from city centres (they’re exempt from London’s ULEZ), you wouldn't bet on the situation staying that way forever everywhere.
Clearly, Electrogenic’s creations appease these people as much as they do those wanting to experience the style and aura of classic motoring, with a simplified, less oily setup. With 107hp and 173lb ft of torque going to rear wheels through the Stag’s original four-speed manual gearbox, there’s plenty of potential for fun. Albeit without the burble and whiff of a V8; here, there’s a 37kWh battery in its place. The space left by the fuel tank and spare wheel is occupied, too. The conversion uses a Type 2 charger and offers an approximate range of 150 miles of range.
The same ‘Hyper9’ high-voltage brushless motor setup is deployed in the Morgan, with identical outputs to the Stag, with the 4/4’s original manual gearbox also retained for three-pedal driving. Again, range is rated at about 150 miles per charge, in a car that might be more widely liked because it only traded a four-cylinder for the battery-powered layout. Also, the new power output is more closely aligned with the original engine’s 114hp; by contrast, the Stag has been ‘downgraded’ by 38hp. Although the instant delivery of EV torque probably compensates for that.
That said, speed isn’t the point of these Electrogenic conversions, nor has it been the point of earlier classic conversions by firms like Lunaz. This is all about keeping vintage vehicles on the roads in a world where attitudes are clearly changing. To some, the operation of a literal plug-and-play vehicle, which doesn’t require constant tinkering and frequent servicing, will be a Godsend, and the fact these cars are electric is second to that change in usability. Although don’t expect a quick saving in running costs. Pricing isn’t out, but Electrogenic’s earlier classic Beetle conversion cost about £35k, excluding the car.
“Converting older cars like these to electric power is about using modern technology to bring out the best characteristics in the cars,” said Steve Drummond, director and co-founder of Electrogenic. “For us this means increasing power within the capabilities of the original vehicle, optimising weight distribution and not using too many batteries to keep the handling crisp and precise. Our proprietary electronics integrate the batteries and motor into a seamless system, making the cars as safe as possible.”
Obviously, it’ll depend which side of the EV fence you sit on as how you feel about classic conversions in the first place, but Electrogenic is adamant that it tries to stay faithful to each car's original design - including redeploying things like gauges. Switching out the engine is certainly the hardest alteration to get onboard with, but if it keeps classics on the road (and out of the garage), it's easy to make a case for a burgeoning trend.
But I can’t see a reason to alter these cars otherwise.
It’s not like they’ll be crushed in 2030 or something.
This is the way forwards, as long as it's a reversible procedure.
If you can't live without the sound, just need to add a soundracer.se product to get the sound you want!
I was wondering how to best sum up my thoughts on this subject too.
Re the DS, however, I think they would work quite well converted to Electric power - it would suit the car. The ICE was just something that propelled the car, rather than part of the character.
Part of a Stag is that V8 burble.
This is the way forwards, as long as it's a reversible procedure.
I was wondering how to best sum up my thoughts on this subject too.
Re the DS, however, I think they would work quite well converted to Electric power - it would suit the car. The ICE was just something that propelled the car, rather than part of the character.
Part of a Stag is that V8 burble.
I think they originally wanted to develop a new 6 cylider engine for it but couldn’t get it to fit.
I just wondering how happy the authorities will be to have a car driven by a real person in traffic dominated by pods driven by algorithms. I expect the private car will be as relevant as the horse as transport.
I was wondering how to best sum up my thoughts on this subject too.
Re the DS, however, I think they would work quite well converted to Electric power - it would suit the car. The ICE was just something that propelled the car, rather than part of the character.
Part of a Stag is that V8 burble.
I think they originally wanted to develop a new 6 cylider engine for it but couldn’t get it to fit.
Reckon they could add a small reservoir of filthy oil to periodically dispense onto the ground, in the interests of nostalgia?
(and I think its a fab little thing) :-)
They might be as relevant as a horse as transport, but suspect they’ll remain just as road legal. Doubt anyone in 1950 imagined you’d still be allowed to ride a horse on the road in 2021 but here we are.
To plonk as someone rightly said an electric motor in an old car is crazy.
Consider handling , brakes , electrics, corrosion etc ,all need updating or revising or repairing. you then end up with an old shape with modern probably unsuitable power system , giving limited performance , limited range at a vast expense. the vehicle will be worth nothing in a very short time. Enthusiasts wont want it , those that first bought it will realise the mistake and those with enough money will buy a new conversion .
I cannot even understand how it could be road legal surely it would need proper examination to show it complied with all safety requirements for electric vehicles . I suspect the fire service would be very unhappy with this concept
If you want an EV buy a properly made model
If you want a classic buy a proper original car
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