to add on to what brian mentioned above, I would suggest you reconsider the regenerative braking feature.
What it is a nice to have feature, it does not make or break an EV conversion.
To reduce the complexity of the project (especially if this is the first EV conversion by the college), then I would suggest using a DC motor first (which doesnt not have regenerative braking). The DC motor is much cheaper and simpler to use than AC.
I've dropped you an email because I seldom check this forum, but I'm willing to assist with further information for the conversion.
