‘Engine Swap’ market hots up with battery electric and hydrogen driveline conversions

A new green technology opportunity has arrived with the electric vehicle (EV) conversion market, potentially worth billions a year to the global automotive aftermarket.

This has given rise to multiple independent startups – such as Australian company Jaunt which recently merged with British outfit Zero EV to create multinational conversion specialist Fellten – as well as established vehicle manufacturers, rushing for a slice of this fast-growing market.

Similar to the time-honoured engine swap process, EV conversions replace an internal combustion driveline with electric motors powered using either a battery pack or a hydrogen fuel cell while keeping the rest of the vehicle and its structure intact.

EV conversions are also seen as a way to extend a petrol or diesel vehicle’s lifespan during the global electric mobility transition, or make classic cars more reliable, enjoyable to drive and eligible to enter zero-emissions zones.