The Firebrid Hybrid Convertible Project (Prius platform swap)

[rickjames8]

>>The bottoms of the fenders will be flared out to match the Prius V chassis

Ah, yep. So the bottom edge I have the same plan for. I was more wondering how you attached the top edge? I need to keep the fender edge flush with the cowl panel.

>>However, I still need to work out the pin-out differences in the connections.

Lucky you are an engineer. I've been trying to decipher the pinouts for my HVAC and it's way more complex than anything I've seen in the past. I've found that even from model to model there are changes that make some parts nearly non-interchangeable. My 2012 factory-nav HVAC system can not be swapped out for a 2012 non-nav controller. The corresponding wires do not exist! I did not expect such complexity. I've compared the wiring harness from the original complete Firebird to the one in the Lexus door and they contain about the same number of wires/connections. Crazy.

Do you have any updated photos?

[Rcnesneg]

Are you running the mild hybrid drivetrain or converting it to plugin?

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

When it comes to the Prius, even if it's not a plug-in, there is no mild-hybrid. It's always a full-hybrid.

[Bill the Engineer]

Firebrid Project Update: It feels good to be underway again. Anything temporarily mounted to the car for the move and storage has been removed. Presently assessing if anything deteriorated from the 3 years of storage. Already found an abandoned mouse nest in the A/C duct to clean out. I haven't seen a mouse, but with 5 cats in the house and more outside, I'm not expecting any to hang around.

I had shown how I attach the fenders on previous postings. If you can't find it I can post photos again.

Using the stock Prius v power train and hybrid system for now. If someone comes out with an easy to install upgrade in the future I'll consider it.

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

Originally Posted by Bill the Engineer

I haven't seen a mouse, but with 5 cats in the house and more outside, I'm not expecting any to hang around.

Some small dogs may be even better at hunting vermin than cats

[GrayRaceCat]

Originally Posted by mcrews

I like the 55 tbird.
there is a fiberglass kit in 1to1 ratio on a frame with roller wheels. you can install rack and pinion steering and any engine and tranny.

It make a great daily driver that is fun to drive.

Sorry I'm SOOO late to the thread but I gotta ask, what's your preference, Rag-top or removable fiberglass top?

[GrayRaceCat]

Originally Posted by mcrews

there is a 60's mustang running around w/ an electric motor. it kicks ass w over 600hp on the dyno. and amazing 0-60 times

Do you mean Mitch Medford of Bloodshed Motors 1968 Ford Mustang fastback all-electric muscle car Zombie 222?

“It’s not a hot rod, it’s not a rat rod, it’s a lightning rod”

[freebeard]

I like the 55 tbird.

I like the four-seat 'Bird hardtop. The motor with a PowerGlide or planetary gearbox goes in the center tunnel and the battery box can go in the well the convertible uses to store the top.

[Bill the Engineer]

Originally Posted by freebeard

The motor with a PowerGlide or planetary gearbox goes in the center tunnel and the battery box can go in the well the convertible uses to store the top.

The traction battery for the Firebrid will be under the rear seat. The bottom cushion will be replaced with a thin pad with matching vinyl to give the correct appearance. I will be installing a roll bar back there too to have attachment points for front seat shoulder belts.

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

Originally Posted by Bill the Engineer

The traction battery for the Firebrid will be under the rear seat. The bottom cushion will be replaced with a thin pad with matching vinyl to give the correct appearance.

Reminds me of some folks who were adapting thin pads to use as back seats (backrests included) for the extended-cab Fiat Strada trucklets, even though they lack anchor points for seatbelts. Some went as far as stitching lap-belts directly to those pads...