How the Bavarian ABT converts diesel vans and light trucks into electric vehicles

The Bavarian experts for alternative drives ABT manage to convert existing vehicles with ICE into electric ones. According to the company, relying on quite a long history and specializing in electrical powertrains in the last few years, e-vehicles are becoming more and more interesting for companies, also in view of possible driving bans for combustion engines in inner cities.

The conversion is particularly interesting for vehicles with expensive conversions or superstructures such as refuse trucks, tippers, refrigerated trucks or cherry pickers. In the case of Volkswagen T6.1 vehicles, for instance, that need a replacement engine anyway due to a defect, the decision to convert to e-drive can also be an easy one. Or, of course, if the ID. Buzz Cargo is too small or not versatile enough and other electric transporters fall through the cracks because they are not Volkswagen.

From diesel vehicles to electric vehicles in only a few days

Since the delivery times for new electric vehicles are generally long and even more time losses have to be reckoned with in the case of special bodies, there is another advantage of the ABT solution: the ability to deliver quickly. “The conversion is carried out by us in just a few days,” said Eric Plekkepoel, CEO of ABT e-Line GmbH. “If a suitable vehicle for the conversion is not available, the second-hand market is an interesting option with quick availability.”

According to ABT, almost all models can be converted: whether long or short wheelbase, with high roof or without, platform models or chassis with special bodies. The base vehicle only has to be a diesel with DSG gearbox.