Electric vehicle (EV) conversion is rapidly evolving and companies like Fellten are leading the charge. Constantly adapting conversion kits for classic cars. Co-Founder Chris Hazell shares insightful updates on Fellten. Their strategies, challenges, and exciting prospects in making EV conversions more accessible and efficient. Particularly focusing on the integration of Combined Charging System (CCS) and the North American Charging Standard (NACS).
In-House Innovation at Fellten
Fellten is at the forefront of EV conversion technology, they're currently bringing battery management systems in-house to enhance control and efficiency. Fellten is always evaluating whether to bring more components in-house to improve their offerings, especially as the company grows. Even with their strategic partnership with AEM for Vehicle Control Units (VCUs).
The Challenge of CCS Compatibility
One of the most significant hurdles for electric vehicle conversion kits is being compatible with CCS fast chargers. External CCS fast charge kits failed to meet Fellten's standards. Leading to the decision to develop these kits in-house. Despite this shift, the challenge of ensuring seamless compatibility with an ever-growing variety of CCS chargers continues. Chris Hazell highlights the complexity of the CCS standard, which is exacerbated by new chargers that often deviate from existing protocols. Necessitating continuous testing and software updates. However, it's clear that Chris and Fellten put safety first. They're working with legislators, engineering standards bodies and other builders to make sure that the industry's products are safe.
Excitement for NACS Compatibility
Adding to the innovation, Chris Hazell expresses enthusiasm for expanding Fellten's product line to include conversion kits designed for the North American Charging Standard (NACS). This move aims to cater to the North American market, where EV adoption is accelerating, and the demand for versatile conversion kits is growing. The development of NACS-compatible kits represents a significant step towards making electric vehicle conversion more accessible and appealing in North America. It's still early days but they have received interest from multiple buyers to start offering the kits. Chris is especially keen to offer a NACS kit because of the charger size of a NACS charge port versus a CCS charge port is much smaller. Making conversions of classic cars and even using the traditional gas tank opening. Which does currently work if a car just wants to be able to AC charge and use the J1772 charger, but with the added size of the DC pins for CCS fast charging the CCS 1 & CCS 2 standards are not as ideal for retrofitting classic cars. Whereas NACS is smaller than even a J1772 charge port and allows for both AC & DC Fast Charging.
Geographical Variations and Future Outlook
The UK (along with Europe) has presented a few unique challenges for adding fast charging to EV conversion kits. From where and how frequently the conversions will be used, to external factors like temperature and humidity (to name a few). However, this has been great practice for Fellten to begin building kits for more international markets. Even with what seems like similar hardware from CCS charging infrastructure providers in Europe can still lead to unexpected outcomes. Thus creating software bugs along with all sorts of other issues. Very similar to what is seen in the U.S. with brand new electric vehicles even struggling to properly communicate with fast charging equipment. This diversity requires Fellten to undertake extensive testing and adaptation efforts. However, Chris Hazell remains optimistic about the future. Expecting that the ongoing challenges with CCS and the introduction of NACS-compatible kits will drive Fellten's growth. Along with innovation in the larger electric vehicle conversion industry.
Conclusion
Fellten's journey in the EV conversion space is marked by strategic decision-making, overcoming technical challenges, and a commitment to innovation. The company's efforts to develop in-house CCS kits. Plus the exciting prospect of likely introducing NACS-compatible conversion kits for the North American market underscore their dedication to advancing electric vehicle conversions. Increasing the accessibility and sustainability of keeping cars already on the road for even longer. As the industry moves towards standardization and broader adoption, Fellten's contributions are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of electric vehicle conversions.
