Optimizing Retrofitting of Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles (ICEV) for Electric Mobility in Low-Income Regions

This paper presents a cost-effective solution for electrifying conventional vehicles, offering an affordable pathway for developing countries. It examines the process of retrofitting internal combustion engine (ICE) cars into electric vehicles (EVs), focusing on the design, modeling, and optimization of key components such as the motor, battery, and power electronics. Through integrated modeling, the study identifies optimal configurations that maximize range and speed while minimizing conversion costs. Optimization techniques balance battery capacity, motor power, and vehicle weight, ensuring a practical and high-performance solution. The designed EV is then tested across different driving profiles to evaluate its performance under real-world conditions. The proposed approach provides a sustainable, scalable model for electric mobility, particularly in regions with limited infrastructure and budgets. The results demonstrate that retrofitting existing vehicles is a viable, low-cost alternative to purchasing new EVs, offering both economic and environmental benefits.