You Can Convert Old Maruti WagonR to Electric for Rs. 2.25 Lakh: Here’s How

The Maruti Suzuki WagonR has remained one of India’s most popular hatchbacks for more than two decades. While Maruti Suzuki does not currently sell an electric version of the WagonR, an old petrol model can be converted into an EV through an aftermarket retrofit.

A recent example shows a 2009 Maruti WagonR converted into an electric car for around Rs. 2.25 lakh. The conversion was carried out by Sriaan Electric Vehicle in Madhya Pradesh.

The modified WagonR reportedly offers a range of around 100-110 km on a single charge and a top speed of around 75 km/h.

Here Is the Example

The electric conversion involved a 2009 Maruti WagonR that was originally powered by a petrol engine. The workshop removed the engine and other petrol-related components, while retaining the car’s five-speed manual gearbox, clutch and flywheel. A custom setup connects the electric motor to the existing gearbox.

The motor and battery were installed in the engine bay with additional fabricated supports. The workshop also fitted a separate 1,000W BLDC motor to operate the air-conditioning compressor.

An electric vacuum pump helps operate the brake booster. The conversion also gets a DC-DC converter and a smart battery charge display. The charging socket sits behind the original fuel-filler flap and uses a 16A industrial connector.

Is It Useful?

An electric conversion can make sense for owners who already have an old WagonR in good mechanical condition and mainly use the car for city driving. This particular conversion reportedly delivers around 100-110 km of real-world range and a top speed of approximately 75 km/h.

That makes the setup more suitable for short daily commutes than highway travel. It also allows the owner to continue using the existing car instead of purchasing a new EV.

However, the Rs. 2.25 lakh figure comes from this specific conversion and should not be treated as a fixed market price for every WagonR. The final cost can vary depending on the vehicle, components, workshop and conversion requirements.

Advantages of Converting WagonR to Electric

The biggest advantage of converting an old Maruti WagonR to electric power is the potentially lower upfront cost compared with buying a new electric car. The owner can also extend the useful life of an existing vehicle instead of replacing it.

An EV conversion eliminates the need for petrol during regular operation and can reduce running costs, particularly for frequent city use. The WagonR’s compact dimensions and practical cabin also make it suitable for urban commuting.

Reusing the existing vehicle can further reduce the need to manufacture another complete car. The conversion can therefore be an interesting option for owners who have a structurally sound old WagonR and want an electric city car without buying a completely new vehicle.

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Disadvantages of Electric Conversion

The biggest concern with an old WagonR EV conversion is that the quality of the retrofit depends heavily on the components, engineering and workmanship used by the workshop. Battery placement, high-voltage wiring, braking, electrical insulation and structural modifications require proper attention.

The converted WagonR in this example also uses a 16A industrial charging connector rather than a conventional CCS2 charging port. Its reported 100-110 km range and 75 km/h top speed can also limit its usability for longer journeys.

Owners also need to check the applicable certification, registration and road-use requirements before undertaking such a conversion. Retrofitment rules and compliance requirements can vary, so a conversion should not be treated as a simple plug-and-play modification.

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