944, Juiced

Pop the hood of a 944 and you might not be expecting this:

Or an instrument array like this:

These pics come from the fascinating website of an enterprising Canadian who is converting a 944 from gas to electic power. Follow the progress of this intriguing project at Electric Porsche 944.

Note that an early version of the Electric 944 put out some 300 ft/lbs of torque, with a 0-60 time of 4.8 seconds, while basically preserving the weight distribution and other aspects of the 944 that we have come to know and love.  Slightly gentler configurations seem to be evolving, but still promising a good driving experience coupled with energy efficiency and environmental respect.

Robin of Electric Porsche 944 also tells me: “I’m in the process of switching from a DC motor to a 3 phase AC induction motor (similar to what Tesla uses in their cars).
After that is complete I may look at a kit or even just some of the very helpful parts that solve difficult steps in the conversion process.”

This makes me want to run out and find (yet another) project 944 for a conversion like this! Maybe an enhancement would be suitable sound effects so that you don’t entirely lose that distinctive Porsche exhaust note …  But even a stealth 944 would have to handily beat the lackluster experience of a Prius or a Leaf, or the big bucks for a Tesla.  Here’s wishing the best for Robin!

NOTE: All photos courtesy Electric Porsche 944 at http://electricporsche.ca/.