ZelectricBugs: Vintage VW Beetles Go Electric

Zelectric Motors is a San Diego-based shop that specializes in converting vintage Volkswagen Beetles to all-electric daily drivers. The company replaces the Beetle’s powertrain with a 22 kWh battery pack and motor, which effectively doubles the Beetle’s original horsepower. The reworked Bugs have a claimed range of 90-100 miles and a top speed of over 90 mph. Zelectric Motors also says that the cars are essentially maintenance free and the original mechanicals can be repaired by any Volkswagen mechanic.

Charging can be done with a regular household power outlet or a 220v outlet. A full charge takes four to eight hours. The LiFePo4 Lithium are expected to last 160,000 miles or more.

Take a tour of their first ZelectricBug, a 1966 Beetle that the company recently sold for $45,000. If the new Volkswagen e-Golf isn’t quite what you’re looking for, maybe one of these beautiful vintage Beetles will be just what you need.