hybrid mod kits?

[wfairley]

I really like the Acura MDX, and would like to retro-fit it for hybrid operation, but I am having trouble finding companies that sell hybrid kits (engine/charging sub-assembly, electric motor and controller sub-assembly, motor controller sub-assembly with re-generative braking, etc.).

Does anyone have any information on hybrid conversion kits, or dealers?

My long-term objective is to retro-fit an Acura MDX, then convert the engine system to ethanol and produce my own fuel.

Thanks for letting me join the forum.

Woody

[Daox]

I'm not aware of any companies doing retrofits like this at this time.

[janvos39]

Woody did you already checked this one?

Poulsen Hybrid

[wfairley]

Thanks for the Poulsen link, I've researched the solution before. It works, but I'd like to go to the next level with this project, really embrace the concept of hybrids and adapt alternative fuels.

Woody

[wfairley]

My vision is condensing into a more holistic approach to transportation energy management execution: a collection of seemingly independent systems tied together in order to fulfill a singular objective, which is to deliver passengers and cargo to a destination in comfort and safety while minimizing energy costs.

The vision includes:
* independent auxiliary power units (apu's) running on ethanol and other alternative fuels
* independent solar collectors covering every horizontal surface, with auxiliary extending surfaces aerodynamically integrated with the exterior
* independent environmental controls which keep the vehicle interior within defined parameters
* independent and redundant power storage systems
* independently staged powertrain systems providing thrust that varies with demand
* independent and intelligent system that manages the power storage, distribution and health, as well as vehicle health monitoring and reporting
* ability to feed back excess energy to a home or public grid via reversible metering
* paint it white, tint the windows, and I'll buy two.

I firmly believe the concept is achievable by simply starting with a platform that already meets the safety guidelines, removing the unnecessary items such as exhaust systems, etc. and applying each independent system to the platform.

My design notebook is growing, notes to follow...

Woody

[cfg83]

wfairley -

This one has been in the R&D stage for *years*, so it may just be vaporware :

Electrocharger / Retrofit PHEV Hybrid Conversion Kit :: Sigma Automotive
electrocharger
Directory:Electrocharger - PESWiki

In a previous iteration, it looked like it would retrofit down to compact cars. However, now I think it's only intended use is for larger RWD vehicles, aka big trucks.

CarloSW2

[rgathright]

Originally Posted by wfairley

* independent solar collectors covering every horizontal surface, with auxiliary extending surfaces aerodynamically integrated with the exterior
...
Woody

I tested this concept by using 1sqft of PowerFilm on my Jeep and drove with it for 1 year. The problem was that the solar cell crumbled in the high heat and humidity of Louisiana. The 1 sqft solar cell, when in full sun, could power an 80MM x 80 MM x 10 MM computer fan mounted on the dashboard. You are just not going to get the power you want from an install on a car like this.

Instead, I decided to mount solar panels on my home. The panels will be in a fixed position so I can protect them a lot better than on my car.

Good luck!

[tf4624]

you need to custom make with with a boat tail in front and back

[SwamiSalami]

It still seems like there's not really anything in this dept. The poulsen. Site seems to only sell chargers.

[tf4624]

Would love to have someone make a mold so we can put a boat tail on our Prius'