Quote:
Originally Posted by a8ksh4
I've been mulling over ideas for how the average DIY'er could convert a RWD vehicle to hybrid w/o too much trouble.
It shouldn't be too difficult to put something between the transmission and front of the driveline, be it a motor, pump, etc. that would recover braking energy.
* Oil pump and pressure tank
* DC generator/motor & batteries
* Flywheel (maybe using a hybrid car cvt transmission to engage/for gearing)
* Big frikin coil spring that winds up
Has anyone on here done an oil pressure/pump hybrid, like what UPS/Fedex were starting to do with some of their trucks a couple years ago?
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I am converting a RWD car right now as a matter of fact with hybrid design or full BEV capable ability. As others have stated the body on chassis vehicles are good candidates for conversion since you have more design freedom and options to play with. I adopted this approach in my conversion and took it a step further and made it a reverse trike! mainly to reduce weight, complexity, price, and upkeep. This approach also gives me the ability to redesign the body shell out of composites for excellent aerodynamics and weight reduction compared to the original steel body shell!
Some of the major considerations is Curb weight which needs to be low and weight distribution. Not as vital in a 4 wheel vehicle but very critical in my reverse trike design. As well as driving habits! You must design for your habits not your desires! Desires are expensive and most of the time not practical but 1-2% of the time. Can you live without that 1-2% if so then you can get it done fairly inexpensively and be way ahead of the curve.
If you want a regen capable vehicle then you should go with a brushless motor either BLDC or PMAC motors. They are the most efficient and pound for pound the best bang for your buck in my opinion. The ME1115 motor weighs in at 35lbs I believe and is rated at 12kw cont and 30kw peak @ 96V and 5000rpm. The Agni motors are even better as far as weight coming in at 25lbs however they are brushed and double the price.
Sevcon Gen4 is the controller of choice for the ME1115 and is reasonably priced for regen and plug in charger ability as well as dual motor configurations.
Lots of options choose wisely the chassis as this is your foundation get this wrong and you will most likely never reach your design goals!
Hope this helps a little good luck,
GreenHornet