Datsun 240z becomes Electric/Diesel Hybrid

[AmpEater]

I thought I'd share my progress with this project as I'm sure many people here have contemplated similar ideas.

I'd like to start by stating that I do not think hybrids the "solution" to our energy problems. They are more like a stepping stone to alternatives, a way for people to get used to the idea of having electricity power their car, even if only in part.

So... why build a hybrid then?

Originally my project started as a pure EV conversion. However, after crunching the numbers over and over I came to the conclusion that I just can't pack enough electricity into this vehicle while keeping the weight reasonable. Also, my needs vary from day to day and having a vehicle that can only travel 40 miles a day means I would need to keep a second, ICE powered, vehicle around at all times for those extra trips and long distance traveling. By integrating the engine I need to have anyway into my EV I get the best of both worlds, and only need a single vehicle.

Unlike a typical hybrid, this is really going to be more of a "range extended EV', hopefully being able to complete 90% of all my traveling without needing the engine.

I plan on cleaning up the diesel as much as is possibly, primarily through the use of propane injection. My understanding is this significantly decreases the amount of unburned fuel leaving the exhaust, while increasing power because you get a more complete burn. I also intend of using WVO if possible, through the use of a heated system. Does anyone have any good suggestions for cleaning up the diesel any further?

More information is available at my blog: Project AmpEater

I'm also having a hard time choosing between a series or parallel setup. Series is simpler mechanically, more complex electrically. Parallel is more simple (and saves 100 lbs due to no need for the generator), but will be more complex mechanically and the generator cannot operate in its peak efficiency band all the time like with a series. Any suggestions/comments are greatly appreciated.

[sharp21]

How many batteries are you gonna have room for?
What kind of generator are you planning on using & how big?
I think a great solution is to run 2 banks of 9 12v's in parallel, giving 96v but with double the range. Then, when you just want to bomb around town you only need to shift 3 wires & you have 192v in series!
Of course you need a motor & controller that can handle it...
S.

[AmpEater]

Originally Posted by sharp21

How many batteries are you gonna have room for?
What kind of generator are you planning on using & how big?
I think a great solution is to run 2 banks of 9 12v's in parallel, giving 96v but with double the range. Then, when you just want to bomb around town you only need to shift 3 wires & you have 192v in series!
Of course you need a motor & controller that can handle it...
S.

I've got 12 Odyssey 1750's, at 73ah each. My controller is 144/156v and 1000A.

The generator head, which I've purchased, but I'm not sure if I'm going to end up using or not is 10,000 watts.

My motor is a 9" Kostov, rated for 144v and 107a cont. I'm hoping it can handle 1000A without melting, but I've heard of it being used at 1000A and 300v+ for drag racing, so it should be OK.

[H4MM3R]

Wow that is a clean 240z

[tjts1]

Very interesting project. Bookmarked your page so I can follow along. Good luck

[Cd]

I'm already in line if you ever want to sell something like this.
I had a 280Z ( same budy style as the 240 Z )

Al I can say is WOW. I'm impressed !

[MetroMPG]

Hi AmpEater, welcome. Very interesting project.

Have you seen this bio-d / electric series hybrid?

http://forum.ecomodder.com/showthrea...Miata#post7812

I'm hoping to go visit him when the weather warms up to have a better look at the car. Actually, it'll probably be at the EV Expo in May with the ForkenSwift this year.

[RH77]

Dreams do come true! A Diesel-Hybrid powertrain into a classic, fun, Sportscar.

Bookmarked as well I'm also looking forward to the progress...

I like the idea of a "range extending EV" -- something very suitable for any Hybrid, IMO.

Welcome and keep us posted

RH77

[SVOboy]

Sweet project! Welcome to the site!

[Daox]

Very nice project! I almost picked up a 280z a few years back as a restoration project. Beautiful car.