July 19, 2008 by Rob.

It was nice to get a follow-up from the Picayune about the RAVolt and even nicer to see positive and accurate reporting!  Thanks Will Pafford and the Picayune!  Now, please get online so I don’t have to scan your copy anymore - hey, I did include your ads too.

Posted in RAV4, Pictures, Storyline | 1 Comment »

July 18, 2008 by Rob.

I’ve been getting a FLOOD of email lately about EV conversions.  I’m happy to answer the email directly, but would be just as glad to have them as comments on the blog so other people can see the questions.  I’m planning to edit and publish the emails on the blog.  They are mostly the same:

• Should I convert my car to be an EV?  If you are passionate about change, not just to save gas.
• Should I buy an EV?  There are few real choices.  Aptera is the most interesting one, but not here yet.  I cannot recommend any NEV.
• I want an EV that goes 50 miles per charge.  Can I do that?  Yes, but it will be expensive (estimate $30k)
• Can you give me plans to convert my car?  Yes, read the blog.  It’s all in the history.
• Is the RAV4 a good EV choice?  Yes, but you need a manual transmission.
• I only have 1 car, should I convert that?  No, I don’t think you should rely on an EV as your only car.
• I have an exact budget using a kit.  What do you think?  Hmmm,  prepare for the unexpected.

(Aptera nose)

Posted in RAV4, Electric Vehicles, Storyline, Conversion, Planning | 1 Comment »

June 5, 2008 by Rob.

According to EV Album It appears that another electric RAV4 is in the works. Based on Andrew’s EV Album entry, he’s following the RAVolt naming pattern.  He just got his RAV and is debating AC vs DC.  Andrew, if you reading, you’re welcome to contribute on here!

This is a “gen2″ body style.  It will be interesting to see if it’s different inside.

Posted in RAV4, Electric Vehicles | 1 Comment »

July 9, 2007 by Rob.

Looking at the geometry of the rear suspension tie bars, it looks the the canting is due to the rear load. The picture overlay shows that more lift from the springs should definitely improve the wheel angle.

I’m ordering some RAV4 air springs ($65) to try and address the problem.

Posted in Parts, RAV4, Improvements, Pictures, Conversion, Planning | 1 Comment »

July 7, 2007 by Rob.

Yes, it’s true. The RAVolt’s rear tires cant inward slightly. It’s probably from the load in the back, but I’m not sure. To quote Sgt Schultz: I did nuthing! Except, of course, add 600# of cargo. I did not even take off the back wheels during the conversion.

I’m checking around to see if this is normal for a RAV under load or something that I should be alarmed about. For now, I’m assuming the former but considering the $60 air springs.

Posted in RAV4, Pictures | 1 Comment »