Guide to Electric Conversion with Refined Motor Co.
- Angus Law

- Feb 12
- 3 min read
Classic cars hold a special place in the hearts of many enthusiasts. Their timeless design and nostalgic appeal make them treasures on wheels. Yet, the unreliability, environmental impact and rising fuel costs of petrol engines have led many owners to consider electric conversions. Refined Motor Co. has become a game changer in this space, offering expert conversions that bring classic vehicles into the electric age without losing their charm. Here, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process they follow to convert a petrol classic car into a smooth, efficient electric vehicle.

Assessing the Vehicle and Planning the Conversion
The first step is a thorough assessment of the classic vehicle. Refined Motor Co. inspects the car’s condition, focusing on the chassis, suspension, and bodywork. This evaluation helps determine if the vehicle is mechanically sound for an electric drivetrain.
During this phase, the team discusses the owner’s goals: range expectations, performance needs, and budget. They also decide on the type of electric motor and battery pack that will best suit the vehicle. This planning stage is crucial because every classic car is unique, and the conversion must respect its original design and weight while meeting modern standards.
Removing the Engine and Related Components
Once the plan is set, the team carefully removes the petrol engine, fuel tank, exhaust system, and other related parts. This step requires precision to avoid damaging the vehicle’s structure or interior. Removing these components creates space for the electric motor, key controllers and the high voltage battery system. All components will be packaged for the owner's safekeeping if he or she chooses to "revert" the vehicle back to original.
Refined Motor Co. often documents this process with photos and notes to ensure that any necessary modifications are reversible or can be referenced for future maintenance. The stripped-down vehicle now serves as a blank canvas for the electric conversion.
Installing the Electric Motor
Next, the electric motor is installed. Refined Motor Co. selects motors based on power output and size to fit the classic car’s engine bay or chassis. Sometimes, the original transmission is retained and adapted to work with the electric motor, preserving the driving feel of the classic.
Mounting brackets and custom adapters are fabricated to secure the motor in place. Wiring harnesses are routed carefully to connect the motor to various controllers and the battery system. This step requires mechanical skill and electrical knowledge to ensure safety and performance.
Fitting the Battery Pack and Managing Weight
The battery pack is the heart of the electric conversion. Refined Motor Co. chooses battery modules that balance capacity, weight, and size. These batteries are often installed in the vehicle’s engine bay and trunk to retain the car’s balance and handling.
Weight distribution is critical. The team carefully positions the batteries to avoid negatively affecting the vehicle’s center of gravity. They also ensure that the vehicle weight is within loading limits of the original chassis. Proper cooling systems are installed to keep the batteries at optimal temperatures during operation.

Wiring, Electronics, and Control Systems Integration
With the motor and batteries in place, the next step is wiring the electrical systems. This includes connecting the controllers, battery management system, and charging port. Refined Motor Co. integrates these components seamlessly, managing wiring for the perfect product.
The control systems are programmed to provide smooth acceleration, regenerative braking, and safety features. The team tests all electronics thoroughly to ensure reliability and user-friendly operation.
Testing, Calibration, and Final Adjustments
Before handing the vehicle back to its owner, Refined Motor Co. performs extensive testing. This includes road tests to check acceleration, braking, and handling. The team calibrates the motor controller settings to match the driver’s preferences and the vehicle’s characteristics.
Any issues found during testing are addressed promptly. The goal is to deliver a classic car that drives quietly, cleanly, and reliably, with the feel and spirit intact.

Delivering a Classic Car Ready for the Future
The final product is a classic vehicle transformed into an electric car that respects its heritage while embracing modern technology. Owners enjoy the benefits of zero emissions, lower running costs, and reduced maintenance without sacrificing style or driving pleasure.
Refined Motor Co. also provides warranty, documentation and support for maintenance and future upgrades, ensuring the electric classic remains a joy to drive for years to come.




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