A Creative Solution for a Mechanical Failure

While electric vehicle conversions are frequently associated with luxury restomods costing vast sums of money, a growing community of hobbyists is proving that you don't need a fortune to ditch the internal combustion engine. Recently, YouTuber Life of Troy demonstrated this by transforming a neglected 1996 Suzuki Jimny into a functional EV.


The project began out of necessity. After the head gasket on the SUV’s 1.0-liter four-cylinder engine failed for the second time, the owner decided that rather than repeating costly repairs, he would attempt an electric conversion. Remarkably, the entire process took only five days and cost under $5,000.


Technical Breakdown of the Build

The goal was to create a simple, functional vehicle for local, low-speed driving. By keeping the design straightforward, the owner managed to avoid the complexities often found in high-end electric projects:

  • Motor: A 72-volt DC motor from D&D Motor was mounted directly to the stock five-speed manual transmission using an adapter plate. Despite producing only nine horsepower, the motor provides 65 pound-feet of torque.
  • Battery and Controller: The system is managed by a 500-amp controller and powered by a 105-amp-hour lithium-iron-phosphate battery pack, typically used in golf carts.
  • Range and Performance: The vehicle currently offers a real-world driving range of 20 to 30 miles. It charges in approximately five hours via a standard 120V outlet and can reach top speeds of around 50 mph.

The Practicality of DIY Conversions

The conversion was simplified significantly because the original vehicle lacked complex systems like vacuum-assisted brakes, eliminating the need for extra pumps. The owner noted that while the current battery capacity is modest, it is easily expandable for future needs.


Reflecting on the successful transition, the creator remarked: “It's one of the simplest and cheapest conversions out there.” This sentiment has resonated with many viewers, as the project highlights a growing trend of enthusiasts repurposing old ATVs, golf carts, and small cars into reliable electric machines using accessible, off-the-shelf components.