X-prize idea: cheapest & easiest hybrid or pure electric conversion of existing cars

[yurbud]

While we wait for automakers to get their shit together, we have to make do with the cars already on the road. Also, even if Priuses (Prii?) were available on demand, I couldn't afford to buy one.

What if there was a very quick and relatively cheap way to convert your car? I would guess the price point would have to be under a thousand dollars, whether self or mechanic installed.

could it be done? What would be the obstacles?

[tridim]

1. It can and is being done, but it's much more expensive than $1000.

It's not just the motor that needs replacing.. The entire drivetrain and electrical system has to be altered and/or replaced. Might as well just start from scratch at that point.

[yurbud]

4. in front wheel drive cars, you could just mess with the back and leave existing drivetrain alone

[tinrobot]

5. There are a few conversion kits on the market.

Here's one:

http://www.engadget.com/2008/05/08/poulsen-hybrid-car-conversion-kit-takes-aim-at-x-prize-your-wal/

Suggested price is $3300.

(edit) And the company is actually entering it in the X-Prize competition.

[lfairban]

6. Those are some heavy batteries.

"72V 120Ah Deep Cycle Lead Acid battery"

I think that is about 500 lbs. Why don't they use Li-Ion?

[NickB79]

9. It looks like they will offer Li-Ion batteries as an option, albeit an expensive one

"What does it cost ?

Please note that these are projected approximate prices.

Poulsen Hybrid System $3,500

Which includes:

* 2 Poulsen Hybrid motors
* Auxiliary Components and cables
* 2 brushless DC motor controllers
* On-board charger, 72V, 10A.

Batteries (Additional):

* 72V 120Ah Deep Cycle Lead Acid battery pack (6 batteries). $400 to $450
or
* 4.3 KWh Lithium Ion battery pack with battery management system and dedicated 25A charger: approximately $4,500


Installation performed by an authorized dealer $500 - 600



Total $4,550 with Lead Acid Batteries
$8,600 with Lithium Ion battery pack"

http://www.poulsenhybrid.com/install.html

[lfairban]

8. There are a few other considerations, . . .

. . . such as the un-sprung weight of the wheels when you add those hub motors.

Also, you will be adding about 15-20% to the total mass of the car, even for a minimal system. If you put the batteries all in one place, it will change the balance of the car which will change the handling.

[phantom power]

2. I doubt it's possible to alter an entire drive-train for under $1000.

[wtmusic]

3. Each car is different, and some are completely unsuitable.

Also, the cost is at least $6,000. Still not prohibitive from an economic standpoint, but the time/technical requirements make it not an option for most.

My project:

http://www.aspire-ev.com/

[lfairban]

7. Actually, . . .

You can spend over $1000 converting your bicycle to hybrid electric.

Bionx is one of the higher priced systems, but it is also one of the best.