So I'm still thinking on this one, reading more about AC motors and controllers, running some numbers for costs and whatnot. I really like the idea of an AC motor attached to the front-driveshaft output of a 4WD transfer case. The w59 trans in my truck comes in a 2wd and 4wd version.
I'm half-way through Paul's AC ReVolt thread, and it sounds like they have a working design there that would work with a PMAC motor, which can be relatively inexpensive on ebay. The setup would regen any time the brake is engaged and assist any time throttle is applied (and there is available charge), or have manual overrides for greater control when wanted.
Doing direct-drive from motor -> Transfer case, I think, will constrain the system. Low torque/power at low speeds, but increasing in effectiveness as speed increases. Here's a chart of motor RPM per
What do you all think here? Are there specific motor qualities that I should look for to increase utility at lower speeds? Hmmm... most of my miles might be hwy on weekend trips, so maybe this is a non-issue. Seems like a lot of the industrial PMAC motors have a recommended max RPM of ~3k, but I expect it would be better to over-rev them and the better ratio for lower speeds...
Components needed to make this work:
* AC Motor from Ebay - $400
* AC Controller ReVolt - $400
* 4x4 W59 Trans or Transfer Case - $?? Used I've seen $300 in the past.
* Farking expensive Battery pack? Rebuild salvage pack from wrecked hybrid - $500+?
* Driveline parts, mounting hardware, and machining as needed - $200
* Misc. electrical connectors and hardware - $200?
If I can get a 50% improvement in fuel economy, then the system would save me approx $400 a year. Economic Payback could be in the >5yr range (knowledge/experience payback is instant).