Photo: Richmond News
Richmond, British Columbia man Vincent Yu, in Canada, has been converting a Rolls-Royce to an electric vehicle (EV) over the past four years, according to Richmond News.
In addition to working with mechanics and machinists in the area on the project, Yu spent significant time flying to the U.S., Japan and Germany to source parts.
Yu decided to convert the car on his own after his daughter criticized him for driving a polluting car — and despite some thinking it would be impossible.
“Growing up, I have always been this crazy kid who kept dreaming of doing something ground-breaking in the world — even if it seems impossible.” Yu later explained, “We removed all the vehicle components, from the fuel tank to engine to the car exhaust. We aimed to build an electric motor, charger and battery pack for the car.”
Photo: Richmond News
However, the decision to convert the vehicle came at significant costs — both personally and financially — for Yu.
To pay for the project, Yu had to sell his house, and when his wife became frustrated with this and with the project, she left him. Now that’s dedication.
Still, Yu is now employing the same team of mechanics and machinists at his own EV conversion shop, and his passion for climate change is more fervent than ever.
“I am happy as long as my story could make one person on earth laugh while starting to think about climate change.”
Rolls-Royce is set to launch its first all-battery EV, known as Spectre, expected to debut in 2023. Looks like Yu beat the company to the punch.
