What type of powertrain would you choose for your next vehicle project?

25 Tem 22:56

For my conversion project, I’d lean more towards a **plug-in hybrid (PHEV)**. With a small combustion engine (around 1.2L or 1.5L) paired with an 80 kW electric powertrain, you get the flexibility of long-distance travel while still enjoying a pure electric range of about 50–70 km thanks to a 12–15 kWh battery. This compromise helps limit the added weight (≈200 kg) compared to a fully electric solution, which often needs 30 kWh or more to match the same range—something that would significantly impact handling and payload capacity. In terms of **criteria**, my top priority is the **balance between energy efficiency and operating cost**. The PHEV offers a **much better environmental impact** than a traditional combustion car—daily city trips are mostly covered in electric mode, cutting CO₂ emissions by 40–60% depending on driving cycles, while avoiding the need for expensive, large-scale charging infrastructure required by a pure EV. The upfront cost is slightly higher than a regular hybrid, but the fuel savings (≈2–3 L/100 km in mixed mode) quickly offset the initial investment. From a **technical standpoint**, I like the ability to recover braking energy to recharge the battery, as well as the small combustion engine’s ability to run at a constant speed in its optimal thermodynamic efficiency range—this extends engine life and reduces wear. A well-calibrated electronic management system automatically optimizes the switch between the two power sources, delivering a smooth and pleasant driving experience.

25 Tem 23:22

I converted my old compact model into a plug-in hybrid because I find the combination of short electric range for city driving and the internal combustion engine for longer trips practical – the costs were moderate and the environmental impact significantly better than with a pure petrol car.

25 Tem 23:50

Going fully electric can be a bit risky if you don’t plan your weight distribution carefully. Adding batteries to the chassis usually means they’re concentrated in the lower section, giving you a low center of gravity that makes drifting more controllable. But battery capacity and cooling needs take up extra space and require additional cooling circuits, which can strain your budget. So if your project budget and the car’s interior layout allow it, a full electric conversion will make you happy with that "clean torque" advantage—you’ll get explosive drifts right off the line thanks to instant torque delivery. Hybrid or plug-in hybrid solutions offer a more balanced approach. A small combustion engine, especially when used as a generator, helps maintain battery charge and prevents energy loss on long trips. With a plug-in hybrid, you get around 30–40 km of zero-emission city driving plus the gas-powered push for longer journeys. My advice? If your priorities are **low cost** and **flexible range**, go for a plug-in hybrid. But if **eco-friendliness** and **high torque** appeal to you more, then full electric is the way to go. In short, think about the weight distribution and torque characteristics that will give you the most efficient drifts before making your decision. Personally, I’d choose a plug-in hybrid for the budget and range flexibility, but if your focus is pure electrification and a low carbon footprint, a full electric setup is also a great option. Buddy, just remember to factor in cooling and chassis modifications too—otherwise, you might end up regretting it later with a "well, this didn’t work" situation.