Converting a diesel-powered Toyota Land Cruiser or any other safari vehicle into an electric vehicle (EV) is an intricate yet highly rewarding process. By swapping out the internal combustion engine for an electric powertrain, the vehicle becomes more eco-friendly, cost-effective, and better suited for safari operations. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of converting a diesel safari vehicle into an electric one, using straightforward language while still covering all the technical details.
1. Initial Assessment and Planning
Before starting the conversion, a thorough assessment of the vehicle is necessary. This involves evaluating the condition of the existing diesel engine, gearbox, and drivetrain to ensure the vehicle is in good shape for conversion.
Key Steps:
- Vehicle Inspection: Check the overall health of the Land Cruiser, ensuring the frame, suspension, and other mechanical parts are in good condition.
- Planning the Conversion: Determine the specifications of the electric components, including the size and type of electric motor, battery system, and gearbox needed for the conversion. The power and torque requirements should match or exceed the performance of the diesel engine.
- Identify Vehicle Usage: Consider the specific requirements for safari use, such as off-road capability, battery range, and charging infrastructure in the safari areas.
2. Removing the Diesel Engine and Gearbox
The first major step in the conversion is to remove the diesel engine and gearbox from the vehicle. This opens up space for the electric components that will power the vehicle.
Key Steps:
- Engine Removal: Disconnect and carefully remove the diesel engine, ensuring that fuel lines, exhaust systems, and engine mounts are safely detached.
- Gearbox Removal: Take out the manual or automatic gearbox traditionally used to transfer power from the engine to the wheels.
- Prepare the Engine Bay: Once the engine and gearbox are removed, the engine bay is cleaned and prepared for the installation of the electric motor and battery system.
3. Installing the Electric Motor
With the diesel engine and gearbox removed, the next step is to install the electric motor. This motor will take the place of the internal combustion engine and directly drive the vehicle’s wheels.
Key Steps:
- Mount the Electric Motor: A specially designed electric motor is fitted into the engine bay where the diesel engine used to be. This motor is connected to the vehicle’s existing transmission system (if retained) or directly to the wheels through a reduction gearbox.
- Motor Mounting Brackets: Custom mounting brackets may be required to securely hold the electric motor in place within the engine bay.
- Power Electronics: Install power electronics and controllers to regulate the energy flow from the batteries to the motor, ensuring efficient power delivery and smooth acceleration.
4. Installing the Reduction Gearbox
An electric vehicle typically operates at different speeds and torque compared to a diesel vehicle, so a reduction gearbox is installed to optimize performance for safari driving conditions.
Key Steps:
- Fit the Reduction Gearbox: The new 1:3 reduction gearbox is installed in place of the traditional gearbox. This reduction helps match the torque output of the electric motor to the vehicle’s needs, providing the right amount of power for off-road driving.
- Connect to Driveshaft: The reduction gearbox is connected to the driveshaft, which transfers power to the wheels, ensuring the vehicle can handle various terrain types found in safari parks.
5. Installing the Battery System
The heart of an electric vehicle is the battery system, which stores the energy used to power the electric motor. In a converted Land Cruiser, the battery is usually installed where the diesel fuel tank and engine once were.
Key Steps:
- Battery Placement: Install the battery packs under the hood, where the engine used to be, and in the space where the fuel tank was previously located. This ensures an even weight distribution and makes efficient use of space.
- Wiring and Connections: Connect the battery to the electric motor via high-voltage cables. Install battery management systems (BMS) to monitor the health of the battery, such as its temperature, charge level, and overall condition.
- Cooling System: Install a water-cooling system for the battery to prevent overheating during heavy use, particularly in the hot conditions of African safaris.
6. Customizing the Instrument Panel
The existing dashboard needs to be updated to provide the driver with information relevant to an electric vehicle. This includes data on battery levels, energy usage, and motor performance.
Key Steps:
- Install New Display: Replace the existing dashboard display with a custom instrument panel that shows:
- Battery charge levels
- kWh usage and regeneration
- Time in operation
- Service intervals based on hours of operation
- Add Fleet Management Features: For safari fleets, the system can include GPS tracking, vehicle diagnostics, and performance data to help manage multiple vehicles.
7. Integrating Safety Features
Safety is a crucial aspect of any electric vehicle conversion. Specific features must be added to ensure the vehicle is safe for both passengers and the environment.
Key Steps:
- Emergency Braking System: Install an emergency failsafe braking system that engages if the driver loses control or the engine key is turned off unexpectedly. This prevents the vehicle from rolling away.
- Fire Suppression System: For added safety, particularly in hot environments, consider installing a fire suppression system that uses high-pressure water and a small amount of foam to quickly extinguish any fires.
- Lower Center of Gravity: Since the electric motor and batteries tend to weigh less than a diesel engine, the vehicle will have a lower center of gravity, reducing the risk of rollovers and improving safety.
8. Testing and Calibration
After installing all the components, the vehicle needs to be thoroughly tested to ensure everything is working correctly and safely. This includes performance calibration and adjustments to the motor and battery systems.
Key Steps:
- Initial Test Drive: Conduct an initial test drive to verify that the motor, batteries, and gearbox are functioning as expected.
- Software Calibration: Fine-tune the power settings, speed limiter, and torque output using specialized software to optimize the vehicle’s performance for safari driving.
- Regenerative Braking: Test and calibrate the regenerative braking system, which helps recharge the battery during braking, reducing energy consumption.
9. Final Adjustments and Safari Readiness
Before the vehicle can be used on a safari, it needs to undergo final adjustments to ensure it is optimized for the specific conditions of the safari park.
Key Steps:
- Check Off-Road Readiness: Ensure the vehicle is equipped with off-road tires, high ground clearance, and robust suspension for rough terrain.
- Install Safari-Specific Equipment: Add any safari-specific modifications, such as pop-up roofs for wildlife viewing, binocular holders, or charging ports for photography gear.
- Prepare for Deployment: Ensure that the vehicle is ready for the safari environment, including setting up charging stations at key points within the safari park.
10. Deployment and Charging Setup
Once the conversion is complete, the vehicle is deployed for safari use. Operators will need to establish reliable charging infrastructure for the electric vehicles.
Key Steps:
- Charging Infrastructure: Install charging stations at lodges, camps, or central safari park locations. If possible, use renewable energy sources such as solar panels to power the charging stations.
- Routine Maintenance: Schedule regular battery health checks and software updates to ensure the vehicle remains in top condition with minimal downtime.
Converting a diesel-powered Toyota Land Cruiser or any other safari vehicle into an electric vehicle (EV) is an intricate yet highly rewarding process. By swapping out the internal combustion engine for an electric powertrain, the vehicle becomes more eco-friendly, cost-effective, and better suited for safari operations. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of converting a diesel safari vehicle into an electric one, using straightforward language while still covering all the technical details.
Advantages of Electric Conversion for Safari Vehicles
The conversion of a diesel Land Cruiser into an electric vehicle presents numerous benefits, particularly for safari operators looking to reduce environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency.
a) Environmental Advantages
- Zero emissions: The retrofitted Land Cruiser produces no tailpipe emissions, making it an environmentally friendly option for eco-tourism and safari operations.
- Noise reduction: Electric motors generate significantly less noise compared to diesel engines. This is beneficial for wildlife viewing, as it reduces disturbances to animals and enhances the overall safari experience.
- Less vehicle heat: EVs are far more efficient in energy use, with over 90% efficiency in electric motors compared to the 40% efficiency of combustion engines. This results in less vehicle heat and a more comfortable driving environment.
b) Operational and Economic Benefits
- Low maintenance costs: The electric Land Cruiser eliminates the need for servicing air filters, oil filters, fuel filters, and gearboxes, resulting in fewer maintenance tasks and costs.
- Regenerative braking: The electric motor supports regenerative braking, reducing wear and tear on the brakes and extending their lifespan.
- Energy efficiency: Electricity is cheaper than diesel, leading to significant reductions in fuel costs. Additionally, using renewable energy to recharge the vehicle can further cut operational costs and promote sustainability.
c) Enhanced Driving Experience
- Smooth acceleration: Without the need for a traditional gearbox, the electric Land Cruiser accelerates smoothly, enhancing both comfort and drivability. The motor gradually increases power to the drivetrain, minimizing stress on the vehicle’s mechanical components.
- Safety improvements: Electric vehicles have a lower center of gravity, reducing the likelihood of rollovers. Additionally, the electric Land Cruiser is designed with advanced safety features, including optional failsafe brake systems and fire suppression systems.
Cost of Conversion
The cost to retrofit a diesel-powered Land Cruiser into an electric safari vehicle ranges between $45,000 to $70,000 depending on the specific configuration and battery capacity installed. Tembo e-LV, a leader in electric vehicle conversions, offers kits that include high-performance electric motors, batteries, and reduction gearboxes designed specifically for rugged environments like safaris.
For example:
- Battery System: A 63 kWh battery offers up to 200 km of range, costing a significant portion of the conversion. Batteries are ruggedized for off-road use with water and dustproof housing.
- Electric Motor and Gearbox: The motor delivers up to 110 kW of power and is paired with a custom gearbox to handle the torque needs of safari driving.
Economic Savings
- Fuel Savings: With electricity being significantly cheaper than diesel, safari operators stand to reduce fuel costs by up to 60-70%.
- Lower Maintenance Costs: Maintenance is drastically reduced due to the elimination of components like oil filters, fuel filters, and gearboxes. In addition, regenerative braking extends the life of brake pads, further minimizing downtime and costs.
- Environmental and Operational Benefits:
- No emissions and less noise, which improves the safari experience for both guests and wildlife.
- Government incentives and potential tax benefits for adopting electric fleets, especially with growing eco-tourism trends.
Payback Period
The payback period depends on operational intensity and fuel savings. On average, operators can expect a payback period of around 3-5 years, factoring in reduced maintenance and fuel savings. This timeframe can vary based on energy costs and driving distances in remote areas like safaris, where fuel logistics can be costly.
EV is Being Embraced as future of African Safaris;
Several safari operators in Africa are embracing the shift towards electric safari vehicles, offering eco-friendly, silent, and efficient game drives. These operators have converted traditional diesel-powered vehicles into electric safari cars to promote sustainable tourism. Below are some of the key operators leading the way:
- Chobe Game Lodge, Botswana
Chobe Game Lodge pioneered electric-powered eco-safaris in Africa. Since 2014, they have replaced much of their fleet with electric vehicles and solar-powered boats. These vehicles offer silent, emission-free game drives through Chobe National Park, home to the largest elephant herds in the world. - Ila Safari Lodge, Zambia
Ila Safari Lodge in Kafue National Park was the first in Zambia to introduce electric safari vehicles, powered entirely by solar energy. These “Silent Safaris” allow visitors to explore the park with minimal environmental impact. - Cheetah Plains, South Africa
Located in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Cheetah Plains offers luxury safari experiences using electric vehicles powered by renewable energy. Their fully off-grid electric safari cars provide emission-free game drives in one of the most famous game reserves in South Africa. Read more here. - Emboo River, Kenya
Emboo River lodge in the Masai Mara was the first to introduce an all-electric fleet of safari vehicles in East Africa. Their electric vehicles are converted by Opibus, a Nairobi-based company, and are powered entirely by solar energy. This helps reduce emissions and eliminates the need for diesel fuel in the sensitive ecosystem of the Masai Mara. - Lewa Wilderness Lodge, Kenya
Situated within the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, this lodge offers electric game drives in an area renowned for its conservation efforts, especially for rhinos. Electric vehicles allow for quieter, more intimate wildlife experiences without disturbing the animals.
These lodges and safari operators are at the forefront of sustainable tourism, providing electric safari vehicles that enhance the wildlife experience while reducing environmental impact.
Conclusion
Converting a diesel-powered Land Cruiser into an electric safari vehicle is a detailed and technical process, but the environmental, operational, and economic benefits make it worthwhile. From removing the old engine to fitting the electric motor, gearbox, and battery system, each step ensures the vehicle remains capable of handling the rugged conditions of a safari, while reducing emissions and noise pollution. The result is a more sustainable, efficient, and comfortable safari experience for both operators and guests.
Sources: Tembo e-LV, CleanTechnica, e-motion.africa, Outback Travel Australia.