I've toyed around with the idea of a DIY series hybrid numerous times, and mentioned it here once or twice. Anyway, what all would a person need to build a
range extending plug-in series hybrid? (Not a charge maintaining hybrid like the Volt.)
Use a Metro sized car for the donor car. I'm thinking of a power takeoff generator
like this one, mated to a 30 hp or so diesel (or even gasoline tuned for lean-burn) engine through a reduction gearbox. Set and optimize the engine for single speed operation. Couple that gen-set, set at 220V, through a on-board charger. Use a two string 120V battery pack and
an ultracapacitor, routed to
DC motor/controller. At home charge via 220V single phase. Daily driving ~110 miles/day.
Could such a setup provide decent power and range?