Bill Carlson didn’t just dream about owning a DeLorean — he electrified the fantasy. On a recent episode of the VWIDTalk podcast, Bill shared how he converted his 1981 DeLorean into a fully electric vehicle using parts from a salvaged Chevy Bolt. Without any prefab kits, he swapped in the Bolt’s drivetrain, battery pack, and electronics, fabricating custom mounts, axles and 3D-printed interior components to make it all work. The result? A retro-futuristic EV that blends stainless-steel nostalgia with possible a 200-plus miles of real-world range — and turns more heads than anything he’s ever driven.
What makes Carlson’s build stand out isn’t just the hardware — it’s the engineering ethos behind it. From designing custom PCBs for window control integration to relocating and re-labeling an entire vehicle wiring harness, his garage now houses not just a DeLorean, but a masterclass in DIY electrification.
“I wanted it to look stock, but feel like the future,” Carlson said. His next challenge? Adding DC fast charging and possibly tackling a Nash Metropolitan EV conversion. If you’ve ever wondered how to fuse ’80s iconography with modern torque and zero tailpipe emissions, this build might be the blueprint.
If you’ve ever chased down a rare part number, dreamed about building your perfect GTI or just love a good car story, this one’s for you. Get the full story on the VWIDTalk Podcast on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts ( Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overdrive and more).
The TTAC Creators Series tells stories and amplifies creators from all corners of the car world, including culture, dealerships, collections, modified builds and more.
