Quote:
Originally Posted by Ryland
... disadvantage of course would be no regen braking and that I'm not sure who makes heavy duty free wheel ratchets.
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Formsprag is the "Xerox" of the freewheeling clutch world (sprag clutch is the generic term.)
Automatic transmissions use them too, but you'd have more work to do to get one to fit, sealing in the lubricant, etc.
Ditching regen would open up the possibility of using a series motor, which might or might not fit more easily (a series motor being longer but skinnier.) I can imagine a 6.7 inch series motor possibly tucking in where the alternator often is on Hondas -- but I am just guessing. Series motors should be cheaper, not having the expensive magnets, and can be almost as efficient, but heavier.
Could be a pretty cool project.
It would be fun to make series hybrid with your Commutacar. Squeeze in an efficient generator (like a Perm, etc.) and a 5hp continuous engine, and you'd have it. Then you could be the first Commutacar to drive coast to coast (maybe). (Actually, I just checked...
no such luck.)