Electric

From Datsun 1200 Club

Datsun 1200s are ideal vehicles for electric motor conversion. They are light at 1640 pounds nominal -- a lot lighter than a VW Beetle, yet more roomy. This article focuses on the basics to give you a good overview. For more details, search Google for more information.

See actual kit for Suzuki Cultus/Sprint (Chevrolet Geo Metro) here: Canada EV. This is a high-performance kit starting at $8000. Top speed is over 75 mph, range from 25 to 50 miles depending on batteries used and driving conditions.

The easiest fastest way to convert your 1200 is to buy an EV, and then swap all the parts into 1200. See list of cars and parts for sale at EV Trading Post

Basic components needed for conversion:

• Electric motor and brackets to mount it, and a plate to connect it to a Datsun B210 transmission
• Electronic motor Controller
• Safety switches
• Battery charger -- special kinds are needed
• Amp meter gauge
• Heavier springs to handle battery weight

The stock Datsun 1200 4-speed is light duty. The A14/A15 4-speed will better handle the extra torque of an electric motor.

Note: Most of the information here is gleaned from the EVList

How much does it cost?

How much does it cost to convert a 1200 to electric power? It is comparable to what many spending tuning their piston engines. For about $5000 you can go cylinder head porting, new exhaust, cam, twin carbs, etc. OR you can go electric. The more of the fitting/fabricating work you do, the less it costs.

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That depends on what your desired results are.

(1) If you simply want to make a cheap as possible conversion, and efficiency, range, performance, and handling can all take a backseat, then for a few thousand dollars, you can electrify a 1200 using surplus parts and a small, lower voltage battery pack.

(2) If you want to make an average conversion with acceptable range, good acceleration, good handling, and a nice clean appearance, you