Orange VW bus

Aloha - 1973 VW Bus

Power and Range Redefined: Aloha, the 1973 VW Bus EV Conversion

Our work at EV Works revolves around the art of blending timeless design with modern innovation. While each project tells its own story, our second major Volkswagen Bus conversion—Aloha—represents a leap in performance and range that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of EV conversions.

Meet Aloha

Aloha began life as a 1973 Volkswagen Bus, a model celebrated for its spacious design and cultural significance. When the opportunity arose to transform this classic into an electric powerhouse, we knew it would be a build to remember. Unlike Joule, our first in-house shop vehicle, Aloha was a customer build designed to deliver high performance and extended range.

The Powerhouse Transformation

The heart of Aloha’s transformation lies in the Tesla technology integrated into its design. Here are the highlights of its impressive specs:

Motor: A rear drive unit from a Tesla Model S provides an astonishing 300 horsepower, giving this vintage van a level of performance that would have been unimaginable in the 1970s.

Battery: Aloha’s 74.3 kWh battery pack—composed of Tesla battery modules—ensures over 200 miles of range on a single charge, making it ideal for both city drives and longer road trips.

Charging: With a charging rate of 6.6 kW, Aloha’s battery can be conveniently replenished, balancing performance with practicality.

Tesla modules that make up alohas battery pack

Crafting Aloha

Transforming Aloha was a journey of precision and creativity. The Tesla drivetrain’s integration required careful planning to maintain the Bus’s original layout and charm. Extensive modifications ensured the weight distribution and handling characteristics remained balanced despite the significant increase in power. The result? A seamless driving experience that’s as exhilarating as it is eco-friendly.

From Nostalgia to Innovation

The Volkswagen Bus has always symbolized freedom and exploration, and Aloha’s conversion takes that legacy to the next level. With its quiet, emission-free performance, Aloha combines the nostalgia of yesteryear with the innovations of tomorrow. It’s a bold statement that a classic vehicle can evolve to meet modern needs without losing its identity.

Inspiring the Future

Aloha’s journey has left a lasting impression on our team and our customers. It’s a reminder that each conversion has the potential to redefine what a classic car can be. For enthusiasts considering their own EV project, Aloha demonstrates how bespoke engineering and cutting-edge technology can turn a beloved vehicle into something truly extraordinary.

Let’s Create Your Dream EV

At EV Works, we believe every conversion is a collaboration. Whether you’re inspired by Aloha’s impressive specs or have your own vision for a classic vehicle, our team is here to bring it to life. Together, we can reimagine the possibilities and create a one-of-a-kind EV that fits your lifestyle and aspirations.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.