This site is all about the conversion of my VW Type 3 fastback to electric drive. I'm hoping some information here is useful to anyone attempting a similar project.
The idea to convert the old car was partially out of necessity to do something with the old fastback which had been sitting in the garage for over ten years.
project. Despite its age, the car is solid and is a perfect candidate for electric conversion - being small, lightweight, no complicated electronics and plenty of space for batteries.
This is an overview of the components required for a fully functioning electric vehicle. I bought nearly all components from Traction EV, conveniently located just down the highway in Morayfield. James specialises in VW conversions and has been a huge help.
Motor: Netgain Hyper 9
Controller/Inverter: Netgain Hyper-Drive X1
Batteries: 5xTesla units providing 112.5v, 26.5kWh & 150km range
DC-DC converter (converts the HV battery pack to 12v to power lights, stereo etc.)
D5 liquid cooling system for active cooling of the controller and batteries
when researching EV conversions, I was confused about how the motor connects to the existing drivetrain. Hopefully this information will help others...
I am keeping the existing VW transmission so I will still be able to change gears, however the car will drive ok in 2nd or 3rd. A custom fabricated motor adapter was required to bolt the motor to the bell-housing. Not show in the image below is the shaft coupling which bolts to the motor shaft and onto which bolts the original flywheel. Luckily VW's are common conversion vehicles so these parts are easily found. If you had an obscure vehicle, you'd need to fabricate your own adapters.
Finally the stock VW clutch has been upgraded to handle the higher torque.
I bought the fastback 'Burt' in 2006 soon after arriving in Brisbane. I had always been facinated with Type 3's since seeing them at various Vdub shows. I came across the car listed on Ebay, located in the ACT and a 'buy it now' prices of just over $2,000. A real bargain! After chatting to the owner, I organised it to be transported up to me in Brisbane. It didnt take long to get re-registered as it was in great condition.
