The best source for conversion info in general would be DIYElectricCar forums; at least several cars have been converted that need accessory motors and/or system replacements for power-accessories, that should get you pointed in the right direction.
Note that "old" conversion info is still good info--it gets you started with the basics. Even if the specific parts they used aren't relevant or available, they still tell you what kind of stuff you need to do, use, etc.
However:
Before you even begin going down the conversion road, you should make a complete list of exactly what this conversion must do for you, and under what specific conditions it must do it under, worst-case.
For instance, for that 25-mile trip, would you be going 10mph, 30mph, or 65mph? Do you need to accelerate "like a car", or can you slowly ease up to speed? There is a HUUUUUGE difference in both the amount of power and the amount of battery capacity needed to do these things at different levels.
If there are any hills (even very small slopes), or any breezes or headwinds, they also increase power demands (possibly radically). If you have to guess, guess higher than you think it really is, never lower.
The total expected weight of the car, including motor and battery and passengers and cargo, etc., will be needed at least as a guesstimate (always overestimate that, worst case).
If there are published Cda/etc aerodynamics figures for the car, use those along with simulators like the one at http://ebikes.ca/tools/simulator.html to get at least guesstimates of power usage under your conditions, potential wh/mile efficiencies, etc. (yes, the simulator was made for bicycles...but it can be used generally for anything, as long as you have the right numbers to plug in).
Another thing: Will the car's computer system work without correct input from all the engine sensors and the like? If not, can you DIY a system taht will fake them out? Or can you rewire the car to operate without the computer? (not just "can you physically do it", but is it still going to be a legal conversion, titleable and licenseable where you are, after you do that?)
Note that most EV conversions never get finished. They take a LOT of time and work and money. Some of them take years (or more). Ask yourself: How soon do you need it? How much money and time do you have to spend on it?
evcts said:
I have a salvaged non running 2003 CTS I want to convert to an EV for a 25 mile round trip daily commute. I also have a Crown electric forklift to use. I can make my own adapters, mounts, etc. However, I know nothing about any of the EV parts. What is the best path to take in learning how to choose parts and assemble the EV part of the conversion? I am looking to spend the least amount possible on the project. I am willing to DIY pretty much anything. I figure I'll have to do a powered column swap and a controller to add power steering, some kind of pump for the brake booster, or I could just swap a different master in w/o a booster. Something to serve as an alternator to run the 12V needs. I have no issue doing the research, there is so much info and some of it appears old. Some guidance would be really appreciated.