'96 Chey Lumina - Fuel Economy, Hypermiling, EcoModding News and Forum

cloudbyday · 07-18-2010, 12:19 PM

So I had a weird idea, converting my Lumina into a Hybrid. I know somewhat about cars, so I can use all the help I can get. So if you guys can point me in the parts that I would need, that would be great. I wouldn't do it myself, however. I build computers, not cars.

Laurentiu · 07-18-2010, 04:02 PM

Hybrid ? that would be quite a challenge..or did you mean EV?

cloudbyday · 07-18-2010, 04:08 PM

What is exactly EV? Is it easier than doing hybrid?

Laurentiu · 07-18-2010, 04:24 PM

EV-electric vehicle runs on electric power solely

Hybrid- internal combustion engine + electric motor

Theoretically you can build an EV for as low as 500-1000$ assuming you've got some skills and plenty of time on your hands. As for hybrids I can't really tell you but it will definitely be more costly.
Another aspect regarding building an EV would be the donor vehicle, which should be as lightweight/aerodynamic/low rolling resistant as possible. In my opinion a Chevrolet lumina is on the heavy side, I think you should look at other options to start with.

Anyway, I'm really a newbie in all these, haven't done any of it myself, but on this site there's plenty or real experts who built some amazing vehicles.

I would say start here :

A $672 electric car, built by two DIYers | Hypermiling, Fuel Economy, and EcoModding News - EcoModder.com

Top 10 electric car conversion links | Hypermiling, Fuel Economy, and EcoModding News - EcoModder.com

MadisonMPG · 07-18-2010, 04:33 PM

If you have to ask, you're probably not capable.

cloudbyday · 07-18-2010, 05:05 PM

Yea, that is what I thought. I knew it would be crazy, but I am always trying wierd stuff.

Laurentiu · 07-18-2010, 05:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cloudbyday

Yea, that is what I thought. I knew it would be crazy, but I am always trying wierd stuff.

I would say, ask yourself: do I have the ambition and plenty time to do this ? I don't really think someone with those two characteristics in abundance could completely fail. It's so much easier nowadays with instructables/videos...so much of knowledge on the internet...even if let's say you have no fabrication skills, can't weld or such...I'm sure you could find people willing to help, probably for free...

If you are enthusiastic about this, you could do it !