openinverter forum

Hi Folks,
New to the forum. I am considering swapping a GS450H and rear subframe, differential, and rear suspension, all from the same donor car into something like an older Honda Element. So this would be complete ICE removal and then converting to EV, going from front wheel drive to rear wheel drive. I am also considering using two BMW 530e battery packs to have at least 50 miles of range. I would like to use the battery packs unmodified and since there would be a fair amount of room in an Element, mounting should not be too difficult, perhaps.....
I am not looking for performance but more for some hauling capacity, and I like the looks of the older Honda Elements. I realize that I will need to modify the floor of the Element to install a tunnel for the GS450H unit, and the additional fabrication of installing the rear subframe/differential/suspension.
Looking for feedback from the community on this idea!

Thanks,
Mark

A Tesla small rear drive unit would be a better fit with a lot less fab work needed

Wouldn't it be easier to attain the rear drivetrain part from a 4wd element? Although it might not like the power?

Thank you Slimjimmy for the idea about using a Tesla SDU, I hadn't considered that, and yes it could perhaps simplify fabrication.

Thank you Swing for your comment about using the rear drivetrain from a 4wd Element. Like you theorized, it may not handle the GS450H power.