Retrofit
E-retrofit, or often simply referred to as retrofit (in the context of electric mobility) is the process of converting a used car with a combustion engine (ICE) to a battery electric vehicle (BEV).
How it all started
The project of converting an oldtimer, MGB from 1969.
Upgrading a 54 old car to become electric…
We started a first retrofit conversion project in 2023 as part of a student project with engineering master students of the VUB. Building upon experience from both, local, Belgian players who have already been active in this activity before the legal framework existed in Belgium, as well as companies doing this kind of transformations in other European countries.
We chose a vintage car from 1969, the iconic MGB. Chosing an oldtimer was on purpose for this first project, but should not be the only case we want to address here. Chosing an oldtimer is also a controversial topic, especially among oldtimer fans who want to protect the heritage of old cars, also technically. We proactively took contact and in close interactions with the Belgian oldtimer association BEHVA, ensuring that this message is clearly understood. Very nice feedback received so far shows that we manage to combine both, tradition and new innovation. More information.
Retrofit can basically be done with any type of vehicle, although there are certain criteria that make some cases easier, more appealing, and a natural choice for the first wave of starting up this activity in Belgium.
Our services
Retrofit advisory
We help you realize your project.
o Intake discussion to define the project
o Recommendations of possible components or available approved kits
o Identification of critical elements and limitations (e.g. weight, engine power)
o Assistance during transformation process
o Support in homologation process
Conversion
We transform your vehicle for you.
o Conversion of an existing vehicle and according to requirements
o Ad-hoc project or standard conversion (based on an approved conversion kit)
Press conference 13 september 2023
Campus VUB
Further information
The Belgian legal framework for retrofit.
After other neighbour countries have created their legal frameworks for retrofitting vehicles with an internal combustion engine (ICE) into an electrical (or hydrogen) EV, Belgium also has published a
framework on June 1st, 2023. Federal
Mobility Minister Georges Gilkinet drafted a new Royal decree by mutual agreement with the Regions, which then have their homologation text updated.