Ev crx

[California98Civic]

Originally Posted by Daox

That is a complex question, but almost guaranteed the transmission helps efficiency. It certainly helps acceleration. DC series wound motors like that operate at higher efficiencies based on rpm/amp load. Also, batteries like lower amp draw (as do the electronics), so you can keep rpms higher and treat them nicer which will extend range as well as battery life.

So if I understand, you're saying that the transmission in a car like this would help because the driver could select, for example, second or third gear and get 4000 or 4500 RPMs at 60mph and this would be good for battery life and EV range. Do drivers of such EVs do any gear shifting? Seems like the electric motor would destroy itself as soon as the driveline load was removed by the clutch.

[Daox]

I'm not sure why it would destroy itself. You still have a controller, so when you go to shift you let off the 'gas' pedal. A lot of guys just opt to get rid of the clutch as it seems this guy has also done. Thats not really my cup of tea, but its quite common.

These motors are kinda backwards from a gas engine in how you operate them efficiently. You want higher rpms and low amps (amps is kinda equal to torque) and they're happier in general.

[hamsterpower]

Taking what Daox said a step farther... In a car like this around town you might cruise in second gear but shift to third for max acceleration. That is because with only 72 volts there might not be enough voltage to supply the max amps at higher RPM. Seems backward at first.

[Chrysler kid]

I love the concept and the engine bay. With that small of a motor it seems like you could stack lithium ion batteries in the engine bay