Electric Car Conversions

Sweet car! Oh, it's electric?

Mike Moore of AmpMobile Conversions adapted this 1979 Fiat Spider to run on electric batteries instead of gasoline.

The Lake Wylie, SC auto expert is converting small cars and trucks to electric power. The process recycles vehicles which have a useable body. It uses parts made in America, and gives new life to an otherwise non-running car.

Let's see what's under the hood. A clean engine, in more ways than one! Moore teaches people how to convert vehicles to this system in four-day workshops. He's already converted about 16 vehicles, and his workshops spread the knowledge he has gathered in his research. He is an engaging instructor, and will not resist an opportunity to share what he has learned, even to the smallest student (below). His wife Paula is also very knowledgeable about the process, helping with purchasing, planning, trade shows, and development in their mission to put cleaner cars on the roads.

The system is customized to each vehicle, considering power requirements, available space, center of gravity, and body structure. For a pickup, the truck bed is equipped with a hydraulic lift, making it easy to access the batteries stored below it.

Moore points out that the electric cars are so quiet that people don't really look out for them. It's amazing to ride in them, or watch them slide by; practically all you hear is the tires on the roadway. Ah, also there is no noxious exhaust! They are more efficient in their use of energy, comparing them to gasoline engines; ask Paula to tell you how much.

For more information check out their website, or call: 803-831-1082, or toll free 1-866-831-1082. You can write the Moores at info@ampmobiles.com.