SparkDrive EV

Inspiration:

The idea for SparkDrive EV emerged from our shared passion for vintage cars and a strong commitment to sustainability. A year ago, Mehul, Shivansh, and me, Aditya, realized that we could combine these interests to make a real impact. Jaipur, with its rich collection of vintage cars, provided the perfect backdrop for our venture. We wanted to preserve the charm and history of these beautiful vehicles while making them more environmentally friendly and suitable for everyday use. SparkDrive EV was born from this vision.

What it does:

SparkDrive EV meticulously converts vintage cars into electric vehicles, replacing the old, inefficient and polluting parts with more eco-friendly and sustainable parts.

How we built it:

The process begins with the careful disassembly of the car's original internal combustion engine. We take meticulous notes on each component to ensure we maintain the car's vintage aesthetic throughout the conversion. Once the engine is removed, we install a custom electric powertrain, anchored by a high-performance lithium-ion battery pack chosen for its energy density and efficiency. To ensure the new components fit perfectly within the existing chassis, we design and fabricate custom mounts and brackets, preserving the car's structural integrity and appearance. We then upgrade the suspension and braking systems to handle the increased torque and weight distribution. The electric motor is installed with precise calibration to match the car's original performance characteristics, and a sophisticated battery management system (BMS) is integrated to manage power flow. Finally, we rewire the entire vehicle, ensuring all electrical systems, including lighting and climate control, are compatible with the new power source.

Challenges we ran into:

One of the biggest challenges we faced was balancing the integration of modern electric components with the preservation of the car’s vintage aesthetic. Ensuring that the new powertrain and battery pack fit seamlessly into the existing chassis without altering the car's original structure was a complex task. Retrofitting the original gauges and controls to display modern information like battery level and range, while maintaining the classic look, required innovative solutions and precision. Additionally, upgrading the suspension and braking systems to handle the increased torque and weight distribution of the electric powertrain posed its own set of engineering challenges.

Accomplishments that we're proud of:

We are incredibly proud of the successful conversion of two vintage cars—a classic Austin Healey and a Ford Singer—into electric vehicles, which is a testament to our dedication and technical skill. Our ability to secure funding and support from our family and friends, who believed in our vision, has been another significant accomplishment, enabling us to bring SparkDrive to life. We have also been featured in Dainik Bhaskar, one of the biggest daily newspapers in India, for these achievements.

What we learned:

Throughout this journey, we’ve gained a deep understanding of automotive engineering and the intricacies of electric vehicle conversion. The process has also taught us the importance of precision, attention to detail, and innovative problem-solving. Each challenge we faced—from designing custom mounts and brackets to retrofitting the dashboard—has strengthened our technical skills and reinforced our commitment to our vision. We’ve also learned the value of teamwork, perseverance, and the importance of having a strong support system.

What's next for SparkDrive EV:

Looking ahead, we plan to expand our operations and convert more vintage cars into electric vehicles. We aim to establish SparkDrive as a leader in the niche market of vintage electric conversions, setting new standards for quality and innovation. We’re also exploring partnerships with other automotive enthusiasts, sustainability advocates, and potential investors to further promote our vision of sustainable mobility.