Recently featured in Electrical Apparatus magazine, Chris Cedrone, EV Account Manager at JM Electrical, provided expert insights on the growing trend of retrofitting internal combustion engine vehicles to electric power. 

Cedrone explained that retrofitting ICE buses is a growing trend in the U.S., though he noted that currently less than 1% of buses are electric, including converted ones. He highlighted the significant cost advantages, revealing that savings could be as high as 80% compared to purchasing a brand-new electric school bus.

According to Cedrone, the primary benefits include faster electrification, reduced emissions, and resource conservation through reuse of existing vehicles. He also addressed the technical complexities involved, noting that the biggest challenges include the engineering and precision required to ensure compatibility when replacing key components with electric motors.

From a regulatory standpoint, Cedrone emphasized that replaced components such as brakes and electrical systems must meet standards and be certified for road use, while identifying key industry concerns including range and performance limitations, restricted federal funding, warranty and maintenance issues, and the lack of standardization across the sector.

You can read the full article here: