I want a cheap EV Conversion
Rule number One
Don't buy a rust bucket. This is the quickest route to making a cheap conversion into an expensive one. Where you'll spend time and resources on fixing additional parts of the car and are not able to focus time and effort on the actual conversion process. Ideally start with a reasonably maintained, working car (some funds recovered from component sale) or one that would be uneconomical to fix (big engine or gearbox overhaul required).
Components
You will want Integrated components, that fulfill multiple functions in your build at the same time:
- cheap motor & inverter, ideally combined units (Toyota Prius Gen2 Inverter, Nissan LEAF "stack", Mitsubishi Outlander Rear Drive Unit & Inverter)
- cheap batteries, this will be your biggest expense (Nissan Leaf BMS, BMW i3, repurposed PHEV batteries)
- smaller battery packs can be compensated for by enabling rapid charging
- DC/DC converter; this replaces the alternator to keep the 12v systems running in your car. (Mitsubishi Outlander DCDC OBC )
- charger ( integrated into existing units, such as Nissan Leaf PDM, Mitsubishi Outlander charger & DCDC, Prius Inverter & charger )
Legalities
If you are on a budget, make sure your locality allows what you are trying to do:
If you are looking for a performant ev conversion check the sister page.