FAQ
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How much range does an EV have?
The speed and range of an EV will vary greatly based on the car you choose. Most conversions are easily capable of highway speeds, and can go 30 to 50 miles on a charge. Cars built for high performance have a shorter range. Cars with a lot of battery weight can have astonishing long range, but at the expense of high performance. Basically, you want to find or build an EV to fit your driving needs.
Can I buy an EV?
Used EV's are for sale on our website, and occasionally come up for auction on Ebay. More EV's for sale can be found at "EV Tradin' Post" at http://www.evalbum.com/geobook.html.
How much does it cost to convert a car to electric?
It depends on how many options you want. An EV for everyday use runs about 5 to 10 thousand dollars to convert to an EV not including the cost of the car itself. You can build an EV cheaper buy buying used parts or making some of the parts your self.
A lot of people buy their first EV, it's cheaper and you can learn about EV's by driving one at the same time.
What transmission to use in my EV?
An automatic transmission can be and has been used in an EV conversion, but the modifications required to it are likely beyond the scope of most enthusiasts. The shifting points (what speed/RPM the transmission shifts gears) will have to be changed. The benefits are rather minor and the work required complex, and there is a decrease in overall efficiency compared to a standard transmission, you don't see very many automatic transmissions EV's. Stick to donor chassis that came with a manual transmission from the factory and it will save you a lot of time, trouble and money in the long run.
How many batteries will I need?
For quick back of the envelope calculations, however, a simple empirical equation, which seems to give good results is available. This has been developed by the EV discussion list from a combination of formulas, and has been dubbed the "Neon-Dube" equation by David Dymaxion, its creator, in honor of Paul "Neon" Gooch, and Bill Dube', the primary contributors. It is:
Miles of range = (original weight/converted weight) * (mpg as an ICE car/500) * pounds of batteries.
David Brandt
12/18/02
What options should I have in my EV?
1) Monitor state of charge, Voltmeter
2) Monitor current draw, Amp meter
3) Monitor motor RPM, Tachometers
4) Power steering
5) Power brakes
6) Air-conditioning
7) A really good sound system, radio
And the list go on and on, the sky is the limit or your bank account.
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