A French study from ADEME shows that converting a diesel city car to electric can cut lifecycle CO2 by 66% compared to keeping the diesel, and by 47% versus buying a new EV. The savings come from reusing the body, chassis, and many components, avoiding the carbon footprint of manufacturing a whole new vehicle. The study outlines two conversion paths: swapping the engine for an electric motor while keeping the original gearbox, or fitting a direct electric drive without a transmission. The latter is more efficient but requires more work. At workshop prices of €12,000 to €15,000, a conversion can pay for itself in about seven years according to Fraunhofer research. While retrofits remain niche due to certification hurdles, battery costs, and limited workshops, the case is strongest for classics, rare models, and urban delivery vans. The findings challenge the assumption that buying a new EV is always the greener choice, especially when the existing body is in good shape.
