Unleashing the Beast: The Ultimate Electric Hot Rod Conversion
In the world of hot rodding, the pursuit of power, performance, and pushing the boundaries of innovation knows no bounds. Traditionally dominated by roaring V8 engines and the smell of burning rubber, the landscape of hot rodding is evolving with the advent of electric vehicles. But fear not, the spirit of customization and high performance remains alive and well, as showcased by the electrifying transformation of the Tesla Model 3 Performance rear axle assembly into a true hot rod marvel.
The build begins with a 2002 Toyota Tacoma 2WD Single Cab Pickup. The drivetrain is from a Tesla Model 3 Performance Rear Drive Unit. The goal was to have at least a 200-mile range which is very hard for an EV conversion, so a Model 3 battery was used as a donor. There are 4 modules in a Model 3 battery each one weighing about 300 or so pounds.
Specs That Shock and Awe
Underneath the sleek exterior of this electrified beast lies a meticulously engineered blend of components that elevate performance to electrifying levels:
- Tesla Model 3 Performance rear axle assembly: The heart of the conversion, this powerhouse combines the motor, subframe, suspension, hubs, and brakes, delivering unparalleled performance and handling.
- Custom Frame Mounts: Crafted with precision to seamlessly integrate the Tesla powertrain into the hot rod chassis, ensuring maximum stability and durability.
- Tesla Model 3 Battery Assembly: Providing the juice to unleash the full potential of this electric marvel, delivering lightning-fast acceleration and sustained power.
- Elcon 6.6kW Onboard Charger: Keeping the battery topped up and ready for action, ensuring convenience and reliability for the road ahead.
- Elcon DC-to-DC Converter: Efficiently converting high-voltage DC power to the lower-voltage DC required for auxiliary systems, ensuring optimal performance across the board.
- Tesla Electric Vacuum Pump: Guaranteeing optimal braking performance and safety by providing consistent vacuum assistance to the braking system.
- Tesla Model S-sourced A/C Compressor: Keeping occupants cool and comfortable, even as the asphalt heats up with the adrenaline-fueled excitement of this electrified beast.
- Volvo-sourced Electric Power Steering Pump: Delivering precise and responsive steering feel, ensuring maximum control and confidence behind the wheel.
- Tesla Model 3 Rear Brakes & Cadillac ATS Front Brakes: A formidable braking setup that combines the best of Tesla and Cadillac engineering, providing confidence-inspiring stopping power to match the electrifying acceleration.
- Orion BMS2 Battery Management System: Monitoring and managing the health and performance of the battery pack, ensuring longevity and reliability under the most demanding conditions.
- EV Controls Drive Unit Controller: Serving as the brain of the operation, orchestrating the seamless interaction of all components to deliver a driving experience that is as exhilarating as it is refined.
The Thrill of the Drive
With a flick of the switch, this electrified hot rod springs to life, ready to unleash its full potential at a moment’s notice. The instant torque delivery propels you forward with breathtaking acceleration, pinning you to the seat as you rocket down the asphalt. The precise steering and responsive handling inspire confidence, carving through corners with precision and grace.
But it’s not just about raw performance; it’s about the experience. The near-silent operation of the electric powertrain allows you to fully immerse yourself in the thrill of the drive, with only the sound of the wind rushing past and the faint hum of the electric motor accompanying you on your journey.
Building the Battery Pack
There is a thing they call a penthouse that is on the top of the battery and it holds almost all the things needed for an EV conversion – DC/DC converter, charger, contactors, and battery management system. For ease of accessibility, it was relocated under the hood. and kind of out of the elements.
The Future of Hot Rodding
As electric vehicles continue to gain traction in the automotive world, the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of hot rodding are being pushed to new and exciting heights. With electrification comes a whole new world of possibilities for customization and performance enhancement, offering hot rod enthusiasts the opportunity to blaze a trail into uncharted territory.
So, whether you’re a die-hard petrolhead or a forward-thinking enthusiast embracing the electric revolution, one thing is for certain: the future of hot rodding has never looked brighter, or more electrifying. Strap in, hold on tight, and prepare to experience the thrill of the ultimate electric hot rod conversion.
2002 Toyota Tacoma 2WD
- Tesla Model 3 Performance rear axle assembly (motor, subframe, suspension, hubs, brakes)
- Custom Frame Mounts
- Tesla Model 3 Battery Assembly
- Elcon 6.6kW onboard charger
- Elcon DC-to-DC converter
- Tesla electric vacuum pump
- Tesla Model S-sourced A/C compressor
- Volvo-sourced electric power steering pump
- Tesla Model 3 Rear Brakes
- Cadillac ATS Front Brakes
- Orion BMS2 battery management system
- EV Controls drive unit controller
