WE INSTALLED A HYBRID MOTOR IN OUR HAYABUSA PICKUP TO GET 100 MPG!

EV Channels Review

This episode of Rich Rebuilds details the installation of a front electric motor into a Hayabusa-swapped Volkswagen Caddy pickup, creating a hybrid powertrain. The hosts successfully integrated the electric motor with the original transmission using Lovejoy connectors, overcoming challenges with custom fabrication and expensive parts. A key highlight is the successful test of the hybrid system, demonstrating functional acceleration and, crucially, reverse gear, which is often problematic in such conversions. While the long-term implications, such as combined motor control and real-world range, remain to be seen, the immediate results are promising, showcasing a compact and powerful modern technology solution compared to the original diesel engine. The build also touches upon the practicalities of battery and controller placement, emphasizing the need for weatherproofing.