April 14, 2008 by Rob.

I drive the RAVolt nearly everyday, but not to work anymore.  It’s easy to run 10 to 15 miles just shuttling around the city on errands.  I drove 18.5 miles on a single charge this weekend and it’s obvious that I’d be running on my batteries’ edge to go over 20 miles right now.

I’ve known that I damaged the batteries when I abused them back in November.  It’s a shame to see just how much it cost me in range.  I’ve got some ideas about reconditioning, but it really hurts to lose the range.

Posted in Daily Use, Storyline | No Comments »

April 13, 2008 by Rob.

My friend send me an update with a subject of “Good for the environment, bad for society” and I’ve been tracking the debate on making electric cars (& hybrids) noisier for a while.

I’m neutral on this issue: it think is a shame to create noise pollution, but agree that there is a real safety issue to be addressed. By design, my Curtis controller already makes that whine at low throttle, so don’t expect to hear anything more from the RAVolt.

I’m not sure why the hearing EVs poster choose to show off the cool Subaru R1e, but I’m including it too.

Update 4/14: Upon reflection, I question the accuracy of the video showing blind people tripping over a Prius after walking past an SUV.   The issue is not the Prius’ lack of sound, but the immense amount of distracting noise created by the ICE in the other car.  I’m frequently amazed at other cars’ sonic volume when I’m driving the RAVolt.  <dream>In an all EV city t the noise level be at safe levels and the roar of ICEs would not drown out all other sound.</dream>

Posted in Safety, Electric Vehicles | No Comments »

April 7, 2008 by Rob.

I got some questions from Mike R in Wellington NEW ZEALAND . I’m glad to help with the warning that, like most EV questions, answers will depend on your budget!

Here are the questions:

I am looking at the possibility of having a Toyota RAV4 professionally converted from petrol to electric and have spent some time searching the forums for information. I have a couple of questions you might be able to help me with:

1. In New Zealand most RAV4 petrol versions are automatic not manual. Is there any disadvantage if I used an automatic as a donor vehicle? Are all the manual or auto “bits” removed, or was the manual an essential part of the conversion?

Answer: Generally, EV conversions avoid automatic transmissions because they are tuned to shift at the wrong RPMs. Electric motors have a very different torque curve than an ICE. I’ve heard that you CAN convert an automatic, but it’s not that common. They are also heavier and less efficient.

However, if you are interested in an AC system ($$$) then you may be able to use a direct drive and eliminate the transmission. This is fairly common on rear wheel drive conversions (unfortunately, a RAV4 does not qualify as RWD). AC motors can support a wider RPM range and also support reverse. That makes it possible to omit a transmission. Unfortunately, AC systems are more expensive.

2. The same applies with 2WD and 4WD. Very few 2 wheel drives in NZ. Can an experienced mechanic remove the additional 4WD parts without a significant loss in efficiency?

Answer: I have no idea about eliminating the rear drive. I suspect that you could diasble the rear drive, but you’ll need to check with a mechanic. If possible, I’d avoid 4WD because of the extra mechanical load from the gearing.

Thank you for your help. It is a big step to take in New Zealand, as we are a long way from any RAV4-EV owners!

Regards

Mike R

Posted in Conversion, Planning | 1 Comment »