Ensuring Safety and Compliance in Electric Car Conversions

We all love classic cars – the timeless designs, the engine roar, and the nostalgia they evoke. However, as the world shifts toward a greener future, even these automotive icons need to adapt.

Electrifying classic cars offers a way to enjoy these beloved vehicles while reducing their environmental impact. However, converting a classic car to electric power isn’t just about swapping out the engine; it requires rigorous testing to ensure safety and compliance with modern road regulations.

To be street-legal, any electrified classic car must receive approval from relevant authorities. This means that:

  • The converted vehicle must undergo and successfully pass a series of thorough tests. We partner with FORCE Technology to conduct these tests, beginning with EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) testing that ensures the car doesn’t interfere with other electronic devices, meeting the European standard UN ECE R10.
  • Subsequent tests assess electrical safety as per UN ECE R100, and finally, a comprehensive mechanical evaluation is conducted to confirm the car’s structural integrity and handling.
  • Once all the tests at FORCE Technology are passed, the only thing lacking is approval from the Danish Road Safety and Transport Agency

We have developed a tailored and accredited testing process that can be replicated for future projects. The ability to conduct these tests efficiently was also a key factor in our decision to collaborate with FORCE Technology.

This comprehensive testing process supports our firm commitment to safety, reliability, and adherence to regulations. It guarantees that our electrified classic cars meet the highest road standards, providing our customers peace of mind. It also demonstrates our dedication to delivering a product that is both innovative and dependable, regardless of the original vehicle’s make or model.

Why LiFePO4 Batteries is The Safe and Sustainable Choice

Lithium-ion phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries offer distinct advantages that set them apart in energy storage, making them an ideal choice for our high-performance battery packs.

  • Safety First: LiFePO4 cells boast a significantly lower risk of thermal runaway – a dangerous and potentially explosive condition – compared to other lithium-ion battery types. This inherent stability makes them a safer option for various applications, particularly in demanding environments.
  • Longevity: With a longer cycle life, LiFePO4 batteries can endure numerous charge and discharge cycles without substantial capacity degradation. This extended lifespan translates to less frequent replacements and greater long-term value.
  • Stable Voltage: A more stable voltage profile during discharge ensures consistent power delivery to the devices they power, potentially extending the life of those devices and enhancing their performance.
  • Temperature Resilience: LiFePO4 cells perform admirably across a broader temperature range than their counterparts, making them suitable for applications in extreme heat or cold.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: While LiFePO4 cells may have a higher initial cost, their longer lifespan and reduced safety risks contribute to long-term cost savings.

Overall, the combination of performance, safety, and cost-effectiveness makes LiFePO4 batteries the perfect fit for Banke’s demanding battery pack requirements. They empower our products to deliver reliable, long-lasting, safe energy solutions.

A Passion Project, 
Not a Market Threat

Converting classic cars to electric power is a unique niche, and certainly not a competitor to the mass-market electric vehicle industry.

At Banke, we provide a conversion kit that integrates electrical systems seamlessly into the vehicle,prioritizing performance and off-road capability.

We’ve chosen this niche precisely because converting ‘ordinary’ passenger cars isn’t financially viable. If you own a standard car, buying a new electric vehicle is a more practical choice.

However, a classic Land Rover or VW Beetle with an electric motor?

That’s a statement piece, a conversation starter, a unique expression of your passion for both automotive history and sustainable technology. It’s a guarantee that your neighbor won’t have anything quite like it in their garage!

Classic car conversions are about preserving automotive heritage while embracing a greener future. They’re not about competing with electric cars, but about offering a unique and sustainable way to enjoy these beloved vehicles for years to come.