Reviving Classics! Moment Motor Company Electrifies Vintage Cars

Moment Motor Company Electrifies Classic Cars

Nestled in Austin, Texas, Moment Motor Company has carved out a niche in transforming beloved classic cars into modern electric marvels. Founded by Marc Davis, a car enthusiast with a penchant for nostalgia and innovation, Moment started with a simple yet ambitious idea: to make classic cars sustainable without stripping them of their soul.

In a world where automotive technology is rapidly evolving, Moment Motor Company offers a bridge between the old and the new.

Marc’s journey into the world of electric conversions began with a moment of clarity—the realization that classic car owners, much like himself, desired the timeless beauty of their vehicles but without the mechanical headaches and environmental guilt.

“Our mission is to keep the chrome but lose the exhaust,” Marc says with a twinkle in his eye. “We want to preserve these beautiful pieces of automotive history and give them a second life with modern electric drivetrains.”

THE modular motor systems developed in-house by Moment Motor Company are designed to fit a variety of classics.

Modular Motor and Battery Systems

Moment’s innovative modular motor and battery systems are at the core of its conversions. These systems are designed with flexibility, allowing them to be adapted to nearly any classic car. Whether it’s a compact British roadster or a brawny American muscle car, the Moment team can configure the perfect powertrain for optimal performance.

The modular motor systems use universal mounting plates, accommodating motors from manufacturers like Cascadia, iNetic, Zonic, Tesla, and Netgain. This flexibility is crucial, ensuring that each car gets a motor that suits its size and performance requirements. The typical capacity for their conversions ranges around 30 kWh to 50 kWh, depending on the space available in the vehicle and the desired range. This is achieved by combining multiple Tesla modules into these modular battery boxes.The direct-drive gearboxes can even eliminate the need for a traditional transmission, although Moment often retains the original drivetrain to preserve the authentic driving experience.

Battery placement is another critical aspect. Classic cars require a more creative approach than modern EVs with batteries integrated into the chassis. Moment’s modular battery enclosure systems are scalable and can be placed wherever there’s space in the vehicle, maintaining or sometimes optimizing the car’s weight distribution and handling characteristics. These systems use high-density batteries, often reclaimed from Tesla Model S vehicles, ensuring that the converted classics are not just green but also pack a punch in performance.

Original Essence Plus

One of the most appealing aspects of a Moment conversion is how it retains the essence of the original car while introducing modern reliability and performance. Imagine cruising in a 1968 Porsche, but instead of worrying about engine stalls and oil leaks, you enjoy the silent power and instant torque of an electric motor. The car feels like the classic you fell in love with, but better—no warm-up times, no mechanical anxiety, just pure driving pleasure.

Marc Davis puts it best: “We’re preserving these cars and the memories they hold, but making them more enjoyable and sustainable for everyday use. It’s about creating moments that last, without the baggage of the past.”

The stories behind each conversion are as unique as the cars themselves. Take, for example, the 1982 Toyota Hilux from Australia. A rare four-door pickup that was never sold in the US, this vehicle turned heads when it arrived at Moment’s shop. The owner had fond memories of driving the two-door version as a kid and wanted to share that joy with his family. By converting it to electric, he not only preserved a piece of automotive history but also ensured that it would be a reliable and sustainable part of his life in San Francisco.

Customization at Its Core

Walking into Moment Motor Company’s Austin-based workshop is like stepping into a laboratory where science meets art. The team, a dedicated group of engineers, designers, and automotive enthusiasts, works tirelessly to ensure every car that rolls out of the shop is a testament to their commitment to excellence and innovation.

Moment’s approach to each conversion is deeply personal and highly customizable. The modular motor and battery systems they’ve developed are a stroke of genius, allowing the team to tailor the powertrain to the specific needs and characteristics of each vehicle. This modularity is crucial because it means that no matter the make or model of the classic car, Moment can engineer a solution that fits perfectly and performs flawlessly.

The Moment Modular Battery Enclosure Systems are designed to be scalable, allowing for battery packs to be built with buildable bricks that can be placed in various orientations within the vehicle.

For instance, their use of universal mounting plates and customizable support rails allows for a seamless integration of various electric motors into the vintage chassis. This flexibility is further extended by their innovative battery enclosure systems, which can be configured to fit wherever space is available in the vehicle. This ensures that the weight distribution and handling characteristics of the car remain as close to the original as possible, preserving the driving experience that made these classics beloved in the first place.

Innovative Solutions for Classic Challenges

Moment Motor Company’s ability to marry modern technology with classic car design is rooted in their innovative solutions to age-old automotive challenges. One of the standout features of their conversions is the use of the Moment Modular Systems. This approach not only provides the flexibility needed to adapt to various car architectures but also ensures consistency and reliability across all conversions.

The modular motor systems, for instance, come with universal mounting plates that can accommodate motors from multiple manufacturers, such as Cascadia, iNetic, Tesla, and Netgain. This means that whether the car is a compact British roadster or a hefty American muscle car, the motor can be customized to fit perfectly. The direct-drive gearboxes are another example of their innovation, allowing for the elimination of traditional transmissions, which simplifies the conversion process and enhances performance.

A MOMENT Motor technician carefully modifies the dash and firewall in anticipation of the new EV system.

Preservation Meets Modernity

A key philosophy at Moment Motor Company is preserving the original driving experience. Marc Davis and his team understand that classic car enthusiasts value the tactile connection they have with their vehicles. By bolting the electric motors to the original drivetrains, including the transmissions, Moment ensures that drivers can still enjoy the familiar sensation of shifting gears but with the added thrill of instant torque and silent operation. This careful balance of preservation and innovation is evident in their projects, such as the conversion of a 1970 BMW 1602. This vehicle, originally modest in power, now boasts a dual-motor setup from HP EVs, significantly enhancing its performance while maintaining its classic charm. The careful placement of battery modules in both the front and rear of the vehicle ensures that it handles just as the original designers intended, if not better

A Passion for Performance

The team at Moment is not just about making cars run cleaner; they are passionate about making them run better. This means that every conversion is an opportunity to enhance the vehicle’s performance, reliability, and usability. Using high-density Tesla Model S battery modules ensures that their conversions have the best energy storage solutions available, providing ample power and range for everyday driving.

However, it’s not just about performance metrics. The team also pays close attention to new components’ aesthetic and functional integration. This meticulous attention to detail is what sets Moment apart from other conversion shops. For example, using aircraft-grade adhesives and precision CNC-machined battery boxes ensures structural integrity and maintains the pristine look of the car’s interior and exterior.

Customer Connections and Community

One of Moment Motor Company’s unique aspects is the way it keeps its clients involved and informed throughout the conversion process. Each client gets a private blog that is updated weekly, documenting the progress of their car’s transformation. This transparency keeps clients engaged and builds a sense of community and shared passion among classic car enthusiasts. Marc Davis believes in the power of storytelling. Every car has a story, and every conversion is a new chapter in that story. Whether it’s a family heirloom or a lifelong dream car, the team at Moment treats each vehicle with the care and respect it deserves. This dedication to preserving history while embracing innovation is what makes Moment Motor Company a leader in the field of classic car conversions.

Looking to the Future

As Moment Motor Company continues to grow, it remains committed to its core values of sustainability, preservation, and performance. With a waiting list that stretches over a year, it’s clear that the demand for their unique services is only increasing. But for Marc and his team, it’s not just about business; it’s about passion. It’s about creating moments that last a lifetime and cars that can be enjoyed by future generations without the environmental impact of traditional internal combustion engines.

Transforming a classic car into an electric vehicle is a significant investment, and Moment Motor Company is upfront about the costs involved. Depending on the type of car, its existing condition, and the desired enhancements, the price for a conversion can range from $50,000 to $150,000. This investment reflects the custom nature of each project and the high-quality components used in the conversions. Despite the cost, the value offered by Moment’s conversions is evident in the final product’s enhanced performance, reliability, and sustainability. Clients are not just purchasing a service; they are investing in preserving automotive history and creating a modern, enjoyable driving experience.

So, if you cherish a classic car and want to drive into the future, Moment Motor Company is where your dreams can become a reality. After all, it’s not just about the car; it’s about creating moments that last a lifetime.

Moment Motor Company

Address: 7601 S Congress Ave Suite 170, Austin, TX 78745, USA
Phone: +1 512-537-5872

Email: info@momentmotors.com
Website: www.momentmotors.com

Services Offered:

Conversion of classic cars to electric vehicles
Custom engineering and manufacturing of modular motor and battery systems
Vehicle restoration and enhancement

Waiting Period:

Approximately six months to one year

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the potential benefits of converting a classic car to electric, aside from environmental considerations?

Revving Up Classic Cars: Beyond the Green Factor

Converting a classic car to electric offers a wealth of benefits that go beyond simply reducing emissions. Let’s explore some of these advantages.

1. Enhanced Performance

Transforming a vintage vehicle by implementing an electric platform can substantially boost its performance. Electric conversions generally provide instantaneous torque, which means lightning-fast acceleration that traditional internal combustion engines struggle to match. The result is a classic car that handles like never before, giving a whole new dimension to driving pleasure.

2. Modern Reliability

Classic cars often come with nostalgia-inducing quirks, but also with maintenance headaches. Converting them to electric tends to increase their reliability significantly. Electric motors have fewer moving parts than combustion engines, which reduces the chances of breakdowns and simplifies maintenance routines. This means more time spent enjoying the drive rather than fixing it.

3. Quiet Operation

For many enthusiasts, the roar of a classic car is part of its charm. However, an electric conversion introduces a new experience. The silence of an electric motor brings calm and allows drivers to appreciate the ride and surroundings in a different way.

4. Unique Customization

Taking on an electric conversion presents car enthusiasts with the opportunity to customize their vintage vehicle in unique ways. Whether it’s retaining the manual transmission for a traditional driving feel or integrating modern tech features, the possibilities are endless and allow for a blend of old and new.

5. Extended Range and Efficiency

Modern electric conversions can enhance the range and energy efficiency of classic cars. With the right combination of motor and battery pack, a classic car can achieve impressive mileage on a single charge, sometimes surpassing what the original engine could offer.

6. Increased Appeal as Collector Items

As electric vehicles continue to gain popularity, an eco-friendly classic car conversion might rise in value as a collector’s item. These cars represent a fusion of history and innovation, appealing to a broader audience who values sustainability and technological advancement.

In summary, converting classic cars to electric offers a thrilling fusion of performance, reliability, and innovation. It’s not just about going green—it’s about reviving automotive legends with a modern twist.

How feasible is it to convert specific classic car models, like a 60s Mustang or Corvette, into electric vehicles?

Is it Feasible to Convert Classic Cars like a ’60s Mustang or Corvette into Electric Vehicles?

The idea of converting iconic classic cars, such as a ’60s Mustang or Corvette, into electric vehicles (EVs) is gaining popularity among car enthusiasts. Let’s explore the feasibility of such conversions by examining the crucial aspects involved.

Chassis and Compatibility

The crux of any conversion lies in matching the classic car’s chassis with a compatible electric vehicle platform, often referred to as a “skateboard” due to its flat shape housing the battery and drivetrain.

Classic models like a Mustang or Corvette need careful measurement:

Wheelbase and Dimensions:Classic cars often require modifications to fit an EV platform, which may involve stretching or widening the original structure. For example, if the EV platform has a longer wheelbase, you might need to push each wheel well outwards. This could aesthetically alter the original design but often results in a sleeker, more modern look.
Body Modifications:While extending or widening the body is relatively manageable, shrinking it poses significant challenges. Modern technology like 3D printing might assist in crafting custom body parts without compromising the vehicle’s classic appeal.

Safety and Structure

Converting to electric propulsion also raises structural safety questions. Classic cars, as cherished as they are, were not designed with modern crumple zones or airbags. Therefore, one can’t expect the heightened crash safety standards of current EVs without substantial modifications.

Structural Reinforcement:Integrating new safety features is advisable. However, it is essential to understand that achieving a modern vehicle’s safety level might require invasive structural changes, affecting the car’s integrity and possibly its collectible value.

Technological and Mechanical Considerations

The technology behind electric vehicles demands a thorough understanding and expertise in both mechanical and electronic systems:

Battery Placement and Weight Distribution:The weight and placement of batteries can dramatically alter a car’s handling and performance. Careful planning ensures the car remains well-balanced and responsive.
Compatibility with Classic Systems:Ensuring that modern EV components work seamlessly with or replace existing systems, like steering and suspension, is critical for a successful conversion.

Conclusion

Converting a classic ’60s Mustang or Corvette into an electric vehicle is indeed feasible, but it requires substantial adjustments and thoughtful planning. The end result can be a unique hybrid of vintage charm and modern sustainability. However, enthusiasts should be prepared for the technical challenges and potential alterations to the car’s original character.

How do classic car enthusiasts view the idea of modernizing classic cars with electric technology?

The Intersection of Classic Cars and Modern Electric Technology

Embracing the Future: Electrifying Classic Cars

There’s a growing fascination among car enthusiasts for merging the timeless appeal of classic cars with cutting-edge electric technology. Imagine a classic muscle car, like a 60s Mustang or Corvette, running on a state-of-the-art electric platform. Enthusiasts are captivated by the challenge and allure of this blend: a vintage exterior with a modern heart.

Key Interest Areas:

Nostalgia Meets Innovation: These conversions could satisfy both the love for classic design and the demand for eco-friendly technology.
Performance Enhancements: Electric platforms offer superior acceleration and performance, potentially transforming how these classic cars are experienced on the road.

The Enthusiast Community: Mixed Reactions

While many classic car aficionados delight in preserving the original craftsmanship and mechanics, there is a visible shift towards acceptance of modernization:

Support for Innovation: A large segment of the community is excited about enhancing classic vehicles with electric drivetrains and modern tech.
Traditionalists’ Concerns: Some purists feel apprehensive, fearing the loss of authenticity and the sound and feel of traditional engines.

The Market Viability

Converting classic cars to electric is not for the faint-hearted—or the thin-walleted. It’s an expensive endeavor, yet it intrigues a niche market eager to invest in unique conversions that stand out:

Cost Implications: Transforming these classics involves significant investment, but the potential reward is a one-of-a-kind vehicle.
Demand Insights: There’s increasing curiosity, especially among those who already own cutting-edge electric vehicles, to expand their collections with modernized classics.

Crafting the Classic Electric Experience

Several automotive innovators have successfully paired iconic classic models with electric components, retaining the essence of the car while injecting modern efficiency and reliability:

Highlight Projects: Notable conversions include models like the Beetle and 911, maintaining their historic look while boasting electric power under the hood.

Future Prospects

The fusion of classic design with electric advancements is only beginning to gain momentum. Collaborations and development in this niche area continue to evolve, offering prospects for further refinement and innovation in electrified classic cars. Enthusiasts dreaming of sleek, sustainable classic rides are at the forefront of transforming the automotive landscape with old-world charm powered by new-world technology.

What are some alternative methods or components available for classic car electric conversions?

When considering electric conversions for classic cars, you have several options beyond sourcing from major manufacturers like Tesla. Let’s explore some alternatives:

Purchase from Third-Party Manufacturers

Specialized Suppliers: There are numerous companies focused on producing electric motors specifically for vehicle conversions. These suppliers often provide motors designed to seamlessly fit into a variety of vehicle types and sizes, ensuring compatibility with your classic car.
Custom Kits: Consider buying complete conversion kits from established brands. These kits typically include everything you need—from the motor to the battery mounts—making the conversion process more straightforward.

Salvage Yards

Recycled Components: Salvage yards are a treasure trove for electric components. You can find motors and other parts from decommissioned electric vehicles at a fraction of the price. This is a cost-effective option for those willing to source and refurbish used components.

Warranty and Reliability Considerations

New Components with Warranties: Opting for new electric motors and components often comes with the advantage of a warranty. This can be crucial for ensuring reliability and peace of mind, especially if you’re investing significantly in your classic car’s future.

Battery and Controller Options

Choose Modern Batteries: Look for lithium-ion batteries that are known for their efficiency and energy density. Several manufacturers offer batteries specifically designed for converting older vehicles to electric power.
Advanced Controllers: Upgrade your system with a modern controller that manages the motor and battery performance. High-quality controllers optimize energy usage and maximize the vehicle’s range and efficiency.

By exploring these alternatives, you can convert your classic car into an eco-friendly electric vehicle with components tailored to your needs. This approach not only preserves the vintage charm but also enhances sustainability and performance.

What are some specific technical challenges, like fitting a new chassis, when converting classic cars?

The Moment Modular Battery Enclosure Systems are designed to be scalable, allowing for battery packs to be built with buildable bricks that can be placed in various orientations within the vehicle.

When considering the conversion of classic cars, the technical challenges are substantial. For instance, the Tesla Model S skateboard chassis presents both an opportunity and a puzzle. While this chassis provides a robust foundation, its wheelbase (116.5″), front track (65.4″), rear track (66.9″), and width (77″) may not align seamlessly with vintage models.

For example, a 1968 Pontiac GTO has a wheelbase of 112″, suggesting that each wheel well would need to be extended by 2″ to accommodate the new chassis, which raises questions about the aesthetic and structural impacts. Similarly, the Plymouth Road Runner might seem compatible at first glance, but ensuring the integration of modern crumple zones and airbags without compromising the car’s iconic design is a significant undertaking.

The potential of 3D printing also emerges as a solution for adapting body shells to fit these modern underpinnings, offering a path to preserve the classic aesthetic while embracing cutting-edge technology.

Can classic car bodies be adjusted to fit modern chassis?

Classic car bodies can potentially be adjusted to fit modern chassis by making them wider. For instance, moving the wheel wells out slightly might help accommodate the new dimensions. Additionally, using innovative methods like 3D printing for body shells could assist in overcoming fitting challenges.

How do safety considerations play a role in chassis fitting?

Safety considerations, such as crumple zones and airbags, present a challenge when fitting a modern chassis into a classic car. These elements are critical for crash safety but adapting them to older car designs can be complex, often falling short of modern safety standards like those of Tesla.

What are the dimensional challenges in fitting a modern chassis to a classic car?

Fitting a modern chassis like the Tesla Model S skateboard to a classic car involves navigating specific dimensional constraints. The skateboard’s wheelbase, front and rear track widths, and overall width determine how it might be adapted. Adjustments such as stretching or widening the classic car’s body are feasible, but shrinking it is not.

What are the challenges and considerations of converting a classic car to an electric vehicle platform?

One of the primary challenges in converting a classic car to an electric vehicle is ensuring that the EV platform fits with the existing dimensions of the classic car body. Many classic models have unique wheelbase and track width measurements that don’t align perfectly with modern EV platforms. Adapting these dimensions, such as widening or extending wheel wells, requires careful consideration to maintain the car’s original aesthetic appeal.

Moreover, safety is a significant concern. Converting a classic car involves integrating modern safety features such as crumple zones and airbags, which are not traditionally part of older vehicle designs. This requires thoughtful engineering to ensure that the final product meets contemporary safety standards without compromising the classic look.

Incorporating modern technology into classic car conversions involves balancing technical innovation with respect for the original design. This includes potential solutions like 3D printing for custom body parts, which can help maintain the vehicle’s vintage aesthetic while accommodating new mechanical components. This creative approach ensures that the timeless appeal of classic cars is preserved, even as they are transformed into sustainable, high-performance machines.

Are there real-world experiences or testimonials from individuals who have converted classic cars to electric vehicles?

“The stories behind each conversion are as unique as the cars themselves. Take, for example, the 1982 Toyota Hilux from Australia. A rare four-door pickup that was never sold in the US, this vehicle turned heads when it arrived at Moment’s shop. The owner had fond memories of driving the two-door version as a kid and wanted to share that joy with his family. By converting it to electric, he not only preserved a piece of automotive history but also ensured that it would be a reliable and sustainable part of his life in San Francisco.

Beyond the Hilux, there are countless other inspiring transformations. On the Fully Charged YouTube channel, enthusiasts have showcased a variety of classic cars, such as the iconic Beetle and the elegant 911. Each project uniquely blends nostalgia with innovation. For instance, a vintage Range Rover was given a new lease on life with the incorporation of modern electric components, all while maintaining its timeless design.

Moreover, these conversions often utilize advanced technologies, like Tesla batteries, to enhance performance while striving to keep the original driving experience intact. Many projects even retain manual transmissions, allowing drivers to enjoy the tactile engagement that classic cars are cherished for.

These endeavors are not just about updating old vehicles; they are about preserving the spirit of motoring history while embracing a sustainable future. Each story reflects the passion and dedication of individuals committed to this vision.”

How do these conversions impact the driving experience of classic cars?

By maintaining elements like the manual transmission, these conversions aim to keep the classic driving experience intact while offering the benefits of modern electric technology.

Where can I find more information or examples of such conversions?

The Fully Charged YouTube channel is a valuable resource for exploring real-world examples and learning more about the process of converting classic cars to electric.

What is the quality of the work involved in these conversions?

The conversions are noted for their high-quality craftsmanship, ensuring that the vehicles not only function well but also look impressive.

What technology and methods are used in these conversions?

These conversions often involve using Tesla batteries, with efforts made to retain features like the manual transmission to preserve the traditional driving experience.

What range of classic cars have been converted to electric?

A variety of classic cars have been successfully converted to electric, including models like the Volkswagen Beetle, Porsche 911, and Range Rover.

Are there any community or online resources available for those interested in classic car electric conversions?

“One of Moment Motor Company’s unique aspects is the way it keeps its clients involved and informed throughout the conversion process. Each client gets a private blog that is updated weekly, documenting the progress of their car’s transformation. This transparency keeps clients engaged and builds a sense of community and shared passion among classic car enthusiasts.”

For those eager to explore more about classic car electric conversions, the Fully Charged YouTube channel is an invaluable resource. It showcases a variety of inspiring transformations, featuring iconic cars like the Beetle, 911, and Range Rover. These videos often highlight the innovative use of Tesla batteries and the preservation of classic experiences, such as maintaining manual transmissions.

Together, these resources not only keep enthusiasts informed but also connect them to a larger community sharing the same passion. Whether through Moment Motor Company’s personalized approach or the comprehensive content on Fully Charged, classic car lovers have ample opportunities to engage with and learn from the vibrant world of electric conversions.

Does the conversion maintain traditional driving elements like manual transmission?

Efforts are often made to preserve traditional driving experiences, such as keeping the manual transmission intact during the conversion process.

What components are typically used in these conversions?

Tesla batteries are commonly used in these conversions, providing reliable and high-performance energy solutions for classic cars.

Where can I find videos or content about classic car conversions?

The Fully Charged YouTube channel is a great resource for viewing various classic car conversions and learning more about the process.

What are some examples of classic car electric conversions?

Some classic cars that have been successfully converted to electric include models like the Volkswagen Beetle, Porsche 911, and Range Rover.

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Author

Jerome Andre

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