So many people ask: "What are the differences in conversion types?" "What is the price?" "What can I convert?"  "What can I expect from a conversion?"  "Can I do the conversion myself? "So many questions!  But we are here to hopefully answer some of those questions.  Scroll down to find the answers to our most frequently asked questions.

• Currently, there are two major types of conversions, AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current).

AC means alternating current. Though these systems are more efficient, they have more complicated components, and more importantly,     are higher priced. They also run at much higher voltages. We are now doing the AC drive systemsbut do not have set pricing yet(estimated pricing in the ball park of $23-25,000 using lead acid batteries). Though our goal is to get as many affordable, usable EVs on the road now, we feel the high price and complexity will limit these types of conversions until the prices drop. In the future, as more EVs are on the roads and demand lowers the component and battery prices, AC systems will probably be the norm. Also, as regenerative braking systems can be used on AC drives, the range can be increased somewhat, even with existing batteries.

DC means direct current. These systems are more affordable for the consumer at this time and do provide the range and performance needed for about 70-80% of the population. (According to DOT statistics.) Most of the conversions we have completed are used as "around town" vehicles (speeds from 35-55 mph). The majority of our conversions so far have used Trojan deep cycle lead acid batteries or the better almost maintenance free Discover Energy AGM lead acids (absorbed glass mat - NOT gel), with ranges from 30-60 (plus in a few cases) miles per charge (see our guestbook for testimonials). The recharging requires about 8 hours, generally they are re-charged overnight. We are leaning more toward the AGM type (absorbed glass mat) battery for ease of maintenance. They are more expensive, but do the "human" factor being removed (having to check the water as in the flooded lead acid battery), normally will last longer.

We do not list specific prices for conversions, due to the fact that each vehicle is different. Component, battery and wiring prices increase with higher metal prices. We at Ampmobile Conversions try to keep the cost to a minimum, our goal is to get as many usable EVs on the road now, which is why we usually convert older, easier to obtain, already broken-in vehicles. On average, and we stress average, the cost of an Ampmobile conversion starts around $16,500.00, if using flooded lead acid batteries. (Price is based on 01/2009 pricing.) Expect to pay around $18,500.00 or so if using the AGM batteries (best value for the money). Again, these are estimates ONLY, not including options or repairs, etc... that may be required during a conversion to have a safe, quality, roadworthy EV. One project currently in the works is for new(er) vehicle conversions, using LiFePO, polymer or other batteries. We only have tentative pricing and no timeline yet, but progress is being made, check back for an update. The conversion may or may not include delivery costs, due to the rising cost of gasoline needed for deliveries. If feasible, we deliver the converted vehicle in person and review the entire vehicle and components. Also, the conversion price is for the actual conversion only, any additional body work, repairs, or other "extras' will increase the price. The cost of the actual "donor" vehicle is also separate from the conversion price. A "donor" vehicle is whatever car or truck is chosen to be converted - not to imply a donated vehicle.

•  As a general rule, any light weight vehicle with a working manual transmission is a good "donor" type for a DC system conversion, even motorcycles). With the exception of  the older VW "Bug" most of the small passenger cars and lighter weight trucks are good "donor" candidates. If using lead acid batteries, the older Bug's frame structure is not safe for a conversion. Look for the curb weight around 2500-2800 lbs for cars and under 3200-3500 lbs for a truck. No, the larger cars and trucks, SUVs do NOT make good conversions, way to heavy. Even though you could add more batteries, you still need to move that extra weight. The transmission is not needed for an AC drive system conversion* if you use a "Direct Drive". (* The front wheel drive transmission is "replaced" with an electronic gear box quite easily. A rear wheel drive can also be converted, but is a little more complicated and thus higher priced.) We do stress general rule, one vehicle may not be the best type for your specific needs. We try to match the vehicle with the driver(s), location of use (terrain of area), weather changes (extreme cold or heat), and driver style (lead foot or conservative). With the introduction of the NEW(er) vehicle conversions, using lithium or other batteries, electric cars and trucks will be more universal. Right now, our DC drive conversions are a "clutchless" design, meaning they are still manual, but no clutch pedal is used. Gears are changed simply but releasing the accelerator, changing gears (up or down as needed), and accelerating again. The manual transmission is still used to obtain the most efficient use of the DC drive system. The average range for a lead acid battery conversion is 30-60 miles per charge. The range is determined by several factors, driver style, terrain, size of system and type of vehicle, type of lead acid battery used, speeds driven, even weather affects the range. Charging is completed in around 8 hours, generally an overnight charge is best. This range is for lead acid type batteries only, range and performance will be greatly increased with the use of the new technology batteries.

•  Most AC drive system cars or trucks will have a direct drive "transmission", meaning the gear reduction box will act similar to an automatic transmission. The system will also have re-generative braking, meaning that power will be put back into the batteries whenever the brakes are applied, or whenever the throttle (accelerator/"gas" pedal) is not applied. The AC drive system will also have smoother acceleration.  Normally sealed lead acid batteries (AGMs) will be used in the AC drive system, for an even more "maintenance free" vehicle, unless the customer requests the higher priced lithium based batteries.

• Simplicity, quality and safety are the "names" that goes hand in hand with any Ampmobile conversion. We always try to make a DVD from the ICE (internal combustion engine) removal to the birth of your new ride. Each component is then recorded and explained. Optimum driving is demonstrated, and reviewed with the driver upon the delivery of the vehicle, we do give a mini "driving lesson" to get the maximum range out of our EV.

• At this time, we usually allow about 3-4 weeks to complete a conversion. The timeframe varies depending on the vehicle used, any repairs required to the "donor", possible delays in components or batteries, actual road testing and cycling of the batteries, as well as any other unforeseen situations that may arise. As soon as all components are on hand, the actual conversion is completed quickly. We request a deposit of approximately 1/2 of the conversion cost at the start of the conversion, another 1/4 cost when batteries are installed, any the the balance is due upon delivery (or before) of your Ampmobile conversion.  Due to high demand of some component suppliers, it sometimes takes longer than 3 weeks to complete a conversion, but as soon ALL components are on hand the conversion is completed. We work hard to ensure your conversion be completed as quickly as possible, with quality workmanship and safety first. The time frame is getting better though. AC drive components are normally in stock at all times and the delays should be minimal for those systems, however programming may take 3 weeks from the manufacturer and the machining may require extra time, depending on the vehicle.

• "Can I do the conversion myself?" Yes, of course you can. We can offer assistance in the way of our workshop (see our workshops page for more details), phone assistance - simple questions and directions are always free, (more detailed, in depth and complicated questions - we do appreciate a small "consulting" fee if you please), free email and skype assistance (we do have a webcam so if you do too, we can actually "see" the area for better answers), by offering to "build" a conversion package with assistance in where to obtain the smaller items needed (a lot of those items can be picked up at local stores) and have the package shipped direct to you* (*motor may have to picked up at local carrier's office if coming to a residential address) and more. You will receive a complete manual from EV-America for any DC system you order, either from us or from them, included in the package price.

These are just a few of the frequently asked questions. We will be updating this page often, with more answers and information on new technologies as it applies to Ampmobile electric vehicle conversions.  If you have a suggestion for a questions/answer (simple questions only - non-technical) let us know. We'll see about adding it. Also, review the guestbook, there are often answers to comments there are well.