Complete Electric Vehicle Conversions, Kits, Parts, Service, and Consulting
Links and FAQ's
All of these comments assume a lead-acid battery back is used in the electric car.
How fast will an electric vehicle go?
For the most part, the operating voltage of the system determines the speed of an electric car. Generally speaking, the higher the system voltage the faster the car will go. A typical electric car should have a top speed of at least 60 MPH, a high performance EV should achieve 75 to 85 MPH.
As far as speed is concerned, here is a segment from the Discovery show "Mythbusters" that you will find interesting. The all electric X-1 is pitted against a formula three racer.
How far will the electric car go?
The range of the electric car is a function of many factors. Driving habits, cruising speed, the terrain, how big the battery pack is, the overall weight of the car, all influence the range of an electric car. A well designed electric car should average about 50 miles per charge - and up to 100 miles per day.
How long does it take to charge an electric vehicle?
It takes 6-8 hours for a full charge, and 3-4 hours for an 80% charge. Most of the time charging is done at night when electrical loads are lowest. For long distance commutes, the car can also be charged during the day while the driver is at work.
How much does it cost to run?
Normally it costs less than a dollar to charge up the batteries, so at that rate it costs about two cents a mile for fuel. Battery depreciation will add another four or five cents a mile to the operating costs. The studies also show that maintenance and repair will be less than 10% of the cost of automobile upkeep.
How often do I have to replace the batteries?
Lead-acid batteries will last about 3 years depending upon how you drive and take care of your batteries. In typical driving, this equates to about 18,000 to 20,000 miles
Is insurance an issue?
No insurance is typically not a problem to obtain. The converted electric car was originally designed to meet all federal safety standards. They cost less to fix and lower speed makes these vehicles less likely to be involved in a collision.
Why drive an electric car?
Ecology, economy, efficiency.
Jay Leno takes us for a ride in his 1909 Baker Electric and talks about the Edison Battery that was designed to last almost indefinitely – in fact, he is still using a pack!
Here is Tom hanks talking with David Letterman about what it's like to own and drive an electric car.
Why electric vehicles over hybrids or fuel cells?
While Hybrids are leaps and bounds ahead of pure internal combustion vehicles they do still use fossil fuel and do still pollute a great deal. Fuel cells are still in the research and development phase and may be decades away from commercial production; electric vehicles are available now.
All of these comments assume a lead-acid battery back is used in the electric car.
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