Converting a classic car to electric is a significant engineering project. This page explains what the process involves at Relik Electric, from the initial enquiry through to a road-ready vehicle. It is intended to give prospective clients a clear and accurate picture of what to expect before committing to a build.
Relik Electric is based in Woodchurch, Kent, and carries out bespoke EV conversions for classic car owners across the United Kingdom.
A classic car EV conversion is not a standard service with a fixed price or a defined outcome. Every build is different because every vehicle is different. The process at Relik Electric is structured around understanding the specific car and the owner's goals, then engineering a solution to match.
The conversion follows eight main stages:
Stage 1 of 8
The process begins with a conversation. The owner contacts Relik Electric — by phone or email — to describe the vehicle, explain its current condition, and outline what they want from the finished conversion. This might include target range, performance expectations, fast-charge capability, budget constraints, or any other priorities.
At this stage, Relik Electric will give an initial view on whether the project is viable and what the likely scope might be. No commitment is required at this point and there is no charge for an initial discussion.
Stage 2 of 8
Once an initial conversation has confirmed that the project is worth pursuing, the vehicle is brought to the Woodchurch workshop for a physical inspection. This covers:
The assessment stage may identify work that needs to be completed before the conversion can begin, such as chassis repairs or brake upgrades. This is factored into the overall scope and quote.
Stage 3 of 8
Following the assessment, Relik Electric produces a detailed specification for the conversion. This covers:
A written quote is produced covering all components and labour. This is agreed with the owner before any build work begins.
Stage 4 of 8
The original powertrain is removed from the vehicle. This includes the engine, gearbox (where retained drivetrain components such as a differential are compatible, these may be kept), exhaust system, fuel tank, fuel lines, and associated ancillaries.
The engine bay and available space are then cleaned, assessed, and prepared for the new components. Any structural modifications required to accommodate the battery pack or motor are identified and carried out at this stage.
Stage 5 of 8
Custom fabrication is central to a bespoke EV conversion. Relik Electric designs and builds the mounting hardware, enclosures, and brackets required to fit the new drivetrain components securely to the original vehicle structure.
This stage includes:
Stage 6 of 8
This is one of the most technically demanding stages of the conversion. A custom wiring harness is designed and built for the specific vehicle and drivetrain configuration. All high-voltage and low-voltage circuits are installed, protected, and routed correctly.
Work carried out at this stage includes:
Stage 7 of 8
Before the vehicle leaves the workshop, it undergoes a structured testing process:
Any issues identified during testing are resolved before the vehicle is released. The finished build is road-legal and meets the standards required for UK use.
Stage 8 of 8
The completed vehicle is handed over to the owner along with documentation covering:
Relik Electric remains available for follow-up questions after handover and offers EV repair and diagnostic services for converted vehicles going forward.
Build timelines vary significantly depending on the complexity of the project, the condition of the vehicle on arrival, and current workshop capacity. A straightforward conversion on a vehicle in good condition may take two to four months. A complex high-voltage build with extensive fabrication, bodywork, and restoration work will take longer.
Timelines are discussed and agreed at the quotation stage. Relik Electric provides progress updates to the owner during the build.
Relik Electric's conversions range from approximately £25,000 to £100,000. The main cost drivers are:
Relik Electric produces a full, itemised quote before any build work begins. There are no hidden costs and the agreed figure does not change unless the scope of work changes at the owner's request.