The 1.9l TDI's are full of potential and great on fuel , lots of mods available for better power and economy . and would be an easy way to get reasonable driveabilty and 30 plus mpg (my stock jetta gets over 42mpg/not shy on the throttle). But you cant beat an electric motor for torque , so if your set on an E.V. set up just factor into you battery pack/electrical system , a small to medium diesel or propane generator , any just use it to maintain a full charge on battery packs, more of a dedicated E.V set . I too also like the 6.2/6.5t G.M diesels , anything cummins is $$$ and other less popular platforms might be hard to find parts for if something fails on a road trip. if I had the time I would have already converted at least one Firechicken to diesel and I got a Cavalier RS wagon that would be a great E.V. if you have the means make it happen