Every conversion project owner comes with their own set of motivations, challenges, and goals. Whether it’s a passion for heritage, a love for self-reliance, a drive for efficiency, or a push toward innovation, the one thing each breed of owner approaches their project with is a specific mindset.

Understanding the Five Types of Conversion Project Owners

1. TheDIYer

Meet the DIYer: the kind of person who lays their eyes on some clunky jalopy and sees nothing but potential. These individuals are fearless, resourceful, and equipped with both ambition and a willingness to get their hands dirty. For them, conversion is another puzzle waiting to be solved.

The DIYer thrives on research and self-reliance. They pour over forums like DIY Electric, soaking up knowledge from those who have walked the path before them. They stress over compatibility, hunt for the perfect components, and lose countless hours fine-tuning their vision—and they love every second of it.

This breed loves the challenge, the thrill of mastering a craft, and the satisfaction of bringing a dream to life. Their projects may take time, but the result is always worth it: a personal masterpiece fueled by their own ingenuity.

COOL FACT: Neither EPA nor California Air Resources Board (CARB) require that EV conversions be certified, as long as the conversion does not add a device that produces fuel combustion emissions. Source: www.afdc.energy.gov

2. The Heritage Keeper

The Keeper isn’t necessarily in it for the mechanics—He’s in it for the memories. These project owners are preserving a legacy more than they are electrifying a vehicle. For them, every car has a soul, and converting it to electric power is a way to honor that.

Unlike DIYers, Heritage Keepers don’t want to spend their weekends under the hood. Instead, they turn to conversion collectives (like Fuel2Electric). With over 80 elite workshops available, they’re handing off their prized possession to the best in the business.

This breed of project owner seeks a vehicle that looks and feels like the classic they fell in love with but runs on clean energy. It’s about nostalgia and innovation coming together in perfect harmony.

3. The Shopkeeper

Restomod Shopkeepers are the custodians of tradition meeting transformation. These shop owners see the writing on the wall: the future of classic car restoration is electric, and the demand for them is growing. For them, electrification is an opportunity to modernize their craft.

This type of owner faces a steep learning curve. Their skilled teams are transitioning from carburetors and fuel pumps to electric drivetrains and battery systems. The challenge is balancing innovation with preservation. Their customers want the best of both worlds: the charm of a classic car with the efficiency and sustainability of an EV—and after working on ICE engines for decades, that can be difficult.

Restomod shops turn to platforms like Fuel2Electric for patented kits, industry support, and guidance on integrating EV technology into their workflows.

4. The CEO

The CEO has a bunch of trucks that they want upgraded. Could be due to tax benefits, long-term costs, or environmental concerns. Either way, they’re the ambitious CEOs and business owners reshaping how their business is going to do transportation.

For this breed, the stakes are higher. Many fleet vehicles are custom-built for specific purposes, from wheelchair-accessible shuttles to trucks outfitted with cranes. Retrofitting these vehicles with electric drivetrains is always more practical—and cost-effective—than purchasing brand-new EVs.

The challenges they face are significant. Charging infrastructure must be strategically placed and both drivers and technicians require training to navigate this new electric landscape. But the rewards? Greater cost efficiency, less maintenance, quieter rides, and a stronger brand reputation. CEOs are the folks making the greatest change.

5. The Dream Buyer (The No-Brainer)

The Dream Buyer knows what they want—and they want it now. This breed isn’t interested in the DIY process or overseeing conversions. They don’t care. They’re here for the thrill of finally owning the electric classic they’ve dreamed of for years.

For them, it’s as simple as browsing the “For Sale” section of a trusted platform like Fuel2Electric and clicking “Add to cart”. They’re ready to invest in a fully converted EV that combines timeless aesthetics with modern performance. No mess, no fuss—just instant satisfaction and the keys to a masterpiece—just the way capitalism intended.

The Thread

No matter your breed of conversion project owner—DIYer, Heritage Keeper, Shopkeeper, Dream Buyer, or Fleet Guy—one thing is clear: success depends on the right people. Platforms like Plug In America provide communities for EV enthusiasts, while Fuel2Electric offers comprehensive support for conversion projects, connecting owners with experts and resources for their needs.

Electrification is about vision, collaboration, and perseverance. Whether you’re preserving a classic, modernizing a fleet, or crafting a personal masterpiece, your journey is part of a larger movement toward a better future—and we’re glad you’re here.

 

www.fuel2electric.com