Quote:
Originally Posted by jray3
Quote:
Originally Posted by teknomage2012
Your efforts would be better spent improving the leaf aerodynamics than building a pusher trailer, wedge the nose with a shaped foam grill block, and install a hitch kit and make a tail cone that plugs in to the hitch reciever, install disc wheel covers and rear wheel well spats to add a Lot of range.
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Sorry teknomage, improving the aero of a LEAF is an order of magnitude less impact than building a pusher trailer. The object is not to extend range from 85 to 100 miles per charge, it is to extend range from 85 to more like 500 per fillup. Myself and several others have used pushers for very long road trips. It's worthwhile because though it can eliminate the need for a 'road trip vehicle' in your fleet, the pusher will only be in use for a tiny fraction of the average driver's trips. With this in mind, it doesn't matter so much if your pusher only returns 20 mpg or so, if it displaces the need for a whole 'nother vehicle.
Disclaimer- I don't currently apply this policy, preferring to have the correct tool for each job! |
Now let's not get opinionated about what's better or not. I like both ideas. There's merit in both. If the Leaf had better aerodynamics I could make my once-a-week trip to Montrose without having to drive under the speed limit or bring a tow-along solution. But a pusher trailer could allow me to do the same without having to wait three hours to charge up before going home.
- Aeromods
- No oil changes or other ICE maintenance.
- Improve efficiency
- Don't wear out.
- Are the cheapest option when starting from scratch.
- Don't fall into any grey areas, nor do they open up any doubts about emission legalities.
- Pusher Trailers
- Completely eliminate range anxiety.
- Allow you the flexibility to use two "fuels" whichever you prefer.
- Depending on the trailer design, can add more hauling capacity to your vehicle, and not just space, but weight.
Of course there is also the idea of an aerodynamic pusher trailer...
With a pusher trailer I could go to Alaska!
But then not have an excuse anymore to not visit the in-laws...
