by Retro Electric Car from Jet Industries is Being Auctioned
Long before the mass adoption of electric cars, enthusiasts were already experimenting with converting conventional vehicles to electric. It was a niche direction with simple technologies and lots of trial and error.
One of the few companies specializing in such conversions was the American Jet Industries. Now one of their creations – an electrified Dodge Omni 024 – is preparing for auction.
Technologies of the Past
The car looks ordinary on the outside, but under the hood is an electric motor with only 23 hp. By modern standards, this is laughable, but in the 1970s-1980s, an electric car was something on the verge of a scientific experiment.
A compartment for heavy lead batteries was located in the trunk. The exact number of converted Omnis is unknown, but very few such vehicles remain. The range on a single charge is also unknown.
Currently, all batteries have been removed from the car, so it is not operational. Experts suggest there might be a lot of rust underneath the car, judging by the condition of the trunk.
A Collector’s Rarity
Although the car is undoubtedly unique, its value is unlikely to be high. Given its condition and the narrow circle of potential buyers – mostly collectors of unusual cars – the price might only be a few thousand dollars.
This specimen is a real find for fans of automotive history and early electric car experiments. Despite its technical shortcomings and limitations, it is a living illustration of how technologies developed. Similar exhibits often become museum pieces, complementing the history of transportation evolution.
