Students at Washtenaw Community College are transforming a vintage 1974 Volkswagen Thing into a fully electric vehicle (EV), blending classic automotive design with modern sustainable technology in a hands-on educational project.
The initiative began during the Winter 2026 semester, when students in the college’s Transportation Technologies programs disassembled the vehicle and carried out structural repairs. The project is now moving into its next phase, with a seven-week intensive summer course starting May 5, where students will install a modern electric powertrain.
Work is being carried out in WCC’s newly established EV and Battery Lab, where participants will replace the car’s original internal combustion engine with an electric system. The project will continue into the fall semester, when students will complete body restoration and finishing touches.
The fully reimagined vehicle is expected to debut at major automotive events, including the Detroit Auto Show and Autorama in 2027.
The EV conversion project brings together students from multiple disciplines, including auto service, auto body, and electric vehicle training programs. It is designed to provide real-world experience in emerging automotive technologies while preserving a piece of automotive history.
Once completed, the vehicle will feature a distinctive “mahi green and candy white” paint scheme inspired by the electric Volkswagen ID. Buzz, previously showcased at the 2026 Detroit Auto Show.
College officials say the project reflects the institution’s long-standing commitment to evolving alongside the automotive industry. Over the past decade, WCC has expanded its mobility and transportation programs to meet growing demand for EV-related skills.
Students interested in participating can enroll in the Electric Vehicle Conversion course, which requires a prerequisite in alternative vehicle fundamentals and safety. The program aims to equip learners with practical expertise as the global shift toward electric mobility accelerates.
With this initiative, WCC students are not only restoring a classic car but also driving forward the future of sustainable transportation.
