Hello All!
I've been planning alot for this project for the last 6months and I am finally getting my hands dirty!

Here are some background:
Got my 97 XK8 back in April as a donor car for this project. Since I got it, I've been driving it around for couple hundred km and not had a single problem..(well had few electronic probs but nothing major)
The reason why I'm doing this is cos I love this car and I've always wanted something unique. As for the V8 engine...It's a shame I will miss the thrilling roar sound but trust me, I am building a Jaguar and not a cat looking snail.

EV Spec:
Kostov 11" alpha Motor
Liquid Cooled Soliton 1 Controller
Custom Adaptor Plate
Custom Motor Mount
Toyota MRS EHPS
SP-LFP100AHA x100

0-100kmh(60mph):7Sec or less
Weight Ratio: Same as stock(hopefully)
Range/Charge: 100-150Km
Top Speed: +160km/h
Hp: 290

I will ask for may help but I am willing to take my time to learn!

Here are where I am at the moment
Starting to remove the beast out of the beauty(removing the engine)

Rui

 

This will certainly be an interesting project, but I have my doubts that it will be any faster than the "snail" of a V8 that was in it. I also question why you used a running example when nonrunners, especially those with tensioner issues, can be had so cheaply. In any case, I look forward to seeing your progress.

How much trunk space will you end up using for batteries?

 

Well this is going to be a vey interesting thread.

 

I am in!

 

 

There's probably a selection of lighter vehicles you could have chosen for this project but none prettier - bonne chance!

 

and good luck too!

It would also help if her name is Christine.

 

I got the running one so I can find all the mechanical problems if there are any. Plus I had so much fun in it! (I said snail as in most of electric conversions ends up being much slower than the originals)

I will be removing the massive gas tank and V8, so wont be needing to use any trunk space!
I did think about getting lighter ones...but then I just thought,
If I were driving any other car and see this cat in my room mirror I'd regret not getting it!

 

checking in......

 

Great project, fuel tank can be replaced by batteries, plenty of space when engine and transmission removed for batteries, motor and controller. If it is a convertible, no need to worry about power used for A/C !

 

I think there may be one or two members who would be interested in your old engine.
I'm sure a few dollars would come in useful towards buying those batteries

 

As for the Trans, I am planning to keep it for the time being. However, I've planned it so that I wont need to idle the engine(removing Torque converter) Weather in japan is not bad so I wouldnt be in hurry to get the A/C or heater working yet
I'd love to sell the engine! but no one on the forum lives in Japan...or is there??

 

This might prove interesting, as some of the sensors that won't be hooked up any more will send their 'something's wrong' signal and cause the gear selector to lock-up.

I also think your dash warning lights will light up like a Christmas tree due to there being so many sensors on these cats, so you'll probably have to simply remove some of the bulbs just to keep your sanity.

I just about pulled the trigger to do this to my cat also, but I got cold feet.

If you have room in the trunk, you might also look into this in order to keep from even having to charge the car overnight (the 'guts' inside this plastic outdoor storage box only takes up about 1/8th of the total space of the box):


I'm proud of you for taking on this project, and PLEASE continue to keep us all posted...you're making history here.

 

OK, so what's in the box that's making all the noise?

 

Well, it'll sure be prettier than a Leaf at least. Props for doing something unique- this should be big in Japan. Hope you still have a 'real' car you could go out of town with!

 

I'm well ware of the Christmas tree on the dash but hoping to sort it all out (making the use out of them)
as for the transmission. I know it's going to be the tough one to send the right signal to shift and all. (may consider changing them out to manual)

As for this project updates, I will only be able to work on this project on weekends therefore wont be completing for a while( a year?)
here is the plan.
2015 April will be first time moving the rear wheels
By summer, test driving around the area,
2016 April; Passing MOT and re-register the car to street-legal.

 

great project - looking forward to following your progress!!

 

Hello forum! Its been a while since my last update so here we go!
I've been busy with work so couldn't get much done but ICE is out and ready to start the transplant of V8 to motor!

done:
- Most of the Exhaust System is out ( one of the bolt isnt coming out...)
- Engine is out
- ordered EV parts (other than batteries)

To do:
- Remove fuel System
- Clean up
- decide where to place batteries

I'll be away for the xmas and new year but will keep this updated as soon as i can!

 

fantastic! i'm very excited to see how this turns out

 

Happy new year to all! (I know it's already February..)
Here are few more updates of my conversion!

Updates
- Kostov 11" alpha has arrived
- Fuel tank is finally out!
- Batteries ordered and paid!

The motor spec is as follws;
Peak torque : 380Nm(280lb-ft)
Weight : 75kg
Power :137.5kw (184bhp)

removing the fuel tank was probably the most stressful job so far!
the bloody fuel line just wont come out even with the tool! (the special tool is god damn small!)

Batteries are now being ordered and should arrive by April
Battery spec:
Power :30KW
Weight :310kg
Range :70miles (under estimated minimum)


Enjoy the photos!