Modifying cars has long been an enjoyable hobby, but with next-gen electric vehicles changing the scene.
Current modifications of electric vehicles (EVs) tend to focus on cosmetic/aesthetic and suspension/gear upgrades. But there’s plenty of potential in modifying motor and battery systems: remapping can increase performance and swapping batteries could increase range – but can these changes be completed safely?
Exterior
Electric vehicles contain intricate electronic systems and software, making modifications more challenging to achieve. Tampering could compromise vehicle warranties or damage its internal wiring system.
Even still, however, several aftermarket companies have begun modding EVs with custom body kits and wheels; one company called Switch Vehicles even built an entire kit car at SEMA 2021!
Addition of a larger motor is one common modification, which gives an electric vehicle more power and helps it accelerate more quickly while climbing hills more easily; however, this modification can decrease range and battery life significantly.
Add more grip with larger tyres as another simple modification for electric vehicles (EVs). Not only will you improve its appearance and functionality, but this change could also increase traction, efficiency, mileage and rolling resistance reduction – particularly relevant in electric cars which utilize instant torque that requires high grip tyres to support this extra power.
Interior
Electric Vehicles (EVs) offer much more cabin space thanks to their lack of an internal combustion engine, enabling front seats to be placed further forward while rear passengers have more leg room for stretching out, creating greater comfort and performance benefits for all involved.
Interior modifications for electric vehicles (EVs) are both possible and prevalent, just like they are with traditional cars. Custom upholstery, seat trim, carbon fiber resurfacing and kick plates can all be utilized to improve their aesthetics and the driving experience.
An electric vehicle (EV) differs from traditional internal combustion vehicles in that its motor and associated parts cannot be altered with turbos and superchargers, making tinkering with its electrical systems and software potentially hazardous or voiding warranties altogether. One popular modification for an EV to increase range and power is adding larger batteries; however, doing this will decrease their lifespan and capacity over time.
Performance
Although EV modifications don’t offer as many options as traditional fuel cars, some modifications can still be done by owners themselves. One such modification would be upgrading tires since most EV models use similar PCDs from their respective manufacturer.
Increased motor output through adding extra voltage can also be a popular modification, increasing acceleration and top speed while potentially decreasing range. Keep in mind, however, that modifying an EV can be dangerous due to working with high voltage electrical systems and software tampering can void its warranty.
As more EV manufacturers produce cars that prioritize performance and range, we may see an upsurge in aftermarket products for these models – such as upgrades that increase battery life; manufacturers could even release more powerful versions of current models.
Battery
Modern EVs feature complex electrical systems that may be difficult for novice tuners to understand, leading to potential damage and warranties being voided as well as creating safety risks if tampered with improperly.
Some manufacturers have developed modifications designed to enhance battery performance and longevity, such as Audi’s Q6 e-tron which features a smaller, lighter battery pack that requires less rare earth materials to produce and charges as two virtual battery packs in parallel, thus reducing voltage losses during charging and helping prolong its lifespan.
Other companies are working on developing chemistry that provides more electrons per ion for greater energy density, potentially increasing range or power by up to 30%. This might be the future of electric cars; however, getting there from where we stand today could take many years.
