Mark's CommutaCar
 

Last night, I was helping my friend Mark hook up the batteries and controller in his CommutaCar.

It still needs reverse gear, and a few other small troubleshooting things, including a bit more brake work, but we did get it on the road.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygkS4vx3WpE

Sweet stuff! You're developing a little Cult of CommutaCar aren't you?

Citicars, Commutacars, Metros, cycles.

You name it - we'll make it better. :thumbup:

We should give you some sort of title. "Official EcoModder Ambassador to Wisonsin" or something. We can put it on a little pin you can wear on your lapel. Yep.

I'm full of great ideas today.

Another EV... your addicted now aren't you?

Looks good though.

Maybe i missed it, but what's with the huge front and rear bumpers? Doe they hold the batteries or something?

Yep, the main difference between a Citicar and a Commutacar is that the later holds the batteries in 2 boxes, one in each of the front and rear bumpers.

So, yes, they have crazy huge bumpers on them. This particular car takes advantage of that by having solar panels over the bumpers. We don't have those hooked up yet. Besides, it was dark by the time we got the car running!

Ah, makes sense.

Solar panels - awesome, free charging. Hm, would that improve the range - recharging whilst running?

Yes to improved range while driving, but barely. It's better for while the car just sits to keep a full charge full.

Damn my terrible internet connection. Seems like I wont be watching that until next week at least. Oh well.

If the car is parked in the sun anyways, at least you'll get a little free energy!

We haven't tested out the solar panels yet, so I am not sure exactly how much power they create.

They also may be used to top off the 12v "accessory" battery which runs the headlights, main contactor, windshield wiper, etc.