Mild Hybrid - DIY EV Conversion Motor?

[seuadr]

i just had either a great idea, or a really terrible idea -

what about using an electrified axle in the camper?

my first two thoughts are related to regen and safety, but it seems like there would probably be a way to have the controller manually disengage regen and/or acceleration in event of an emergency, and it seems like regular control of regen and acceleration would be accomplished the same way it would be when mounted in the vehicle - not that i actually know the specifics of that...

[Piotrsko]

Typically regen is a requested function as it takes a wee bit of motor function to start the process, aka excitation. If motor speed is high but not externally excited, you only get motor drag.

[seuadr]

Originally Posted by Piotrsko

Typically regen is a requested function as it takes a wee bit of motor function to start the process, aka excitation. If motor speed is high but not externally excited, you only get motor drag.

so i guess the real balance is if the drag negates the benefit?

[freebeard]

[W]hat about using an electrified axle in the camper?

The Lexus RX 400h (and Toyota Highlander) came with an electric rear axle in 2010-2016 [IIRC]. That's one on the right.

The RX 400h weighs between 4190 and 4365 lbs and came with an external oil cooler for Korea delvery and a trailer towing option.

[seuadr]

Originally Posted by freebeard

The Lexus RX 400h (and Toyota Highlander) came with an electric rear axle in 2010-2016 [IIRC]. That's one on the right.

The RX 400h weighs between 4190 and 4365 lbs and came with an external oil cooler for Korea delvery and a trailer towing option.

wow my camper only weights 2600 pounds. well, obviously it'd be more when you add the axle, battery, etc.

not really sure how i'd take on oil cooling, or any liquid cooling for that matter, that'd be sketchy. had not considered that.

[Piotrsko]

Can you run trans fluid for cooling? Most slushboxes have a line imbedded in the radiator which could be run anywhere after it exits.

[seuadr]

Originally Posted by Piotrsko

Can you run trans fluid for cooling? Most slushboxes have a line imbedded in the radiator which could be run anywhere after it exits.

I dunno how comfortable I'd be about running a trans line to my trailer

[freebeard]

The cooling is optional.

Let's ask DDG::

https://us.lexusownersclub.com › forums › topic › 68738-cvt-rear-differential-fluid
Cvt & Rear Differential Fluid - 04 - 09 Lexus RX330 / RX350 / RX400h ...
OK, did the fluid changes, Looks like the original fluid judging by these pictures...little over 4 qts for the front transmission and 2 qts for the rear. Used WS toyota fluid, was $8 per qt. in the pictures see the sample of new and old on the paper. This was at 89k miles...note the sample was from front. The rear still had a red color.....

https://www.carid.com › lexus-rx-differential-lubricants
Lexus RX Differential Oil | Synthetic, Multi-Grade - CARiD.com
Made to provide the perfect lubricant solution for your needs Designed with innovative manufacturing techniques. ... SAE 80W-90 Synthetic Rear Axle Gear Oil, 16 Gallons by Motorcraft®. Oil Base: Synthetic. Volume: 16 Gallons. Rear Axle. ... RX400h; RX450h Base; RX450h F Sport; RX450h Sportdesign; Help Center. My Account. Track My Order.

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

Originally Posted by seuadr

my main train of thought is that with something to help with getting up to speed combined with lighter weight and better aero might get me to crack 15+ mpg..

Depending on how compact a motorhome/campervan would serve you, maybe even the 20s could be achievable.

[seuadr]

Originally Posted by cRiPpLe_rOoStEr

Depending on how compact a motorhome/campervan would serve you, maybe even the 20s could be achievable.

That would make me super happy. Looks like I probably can't get shorter than about 18 feet while maintaining all the stuff the family wants. That is still pretty compact, though.