Re: Rabbit P/U conversion Underway

[Paul G <neong@gte.net>]

Daniel White wrote:
>If 144V using 6V batteries is really not an option what
>about using 8V batts. Is it still possible to achieve
>40+ miles of range all else being equal?

I'm currently working on a 120v VW Rabbit Pickup project myself. I figured
that 120v worth of Trojan T-105's will push it. (1220lbs of lead). Perhaps
T-125's for 1320lbs, but almost certainly *not* the heavier T-145's
(anyway, these cost lots more in my neck of the woods).

Anyway, I figure that 120v of T-105's would get me about a 60 mile range
with the efficient front wheel drive setup and my driving style. I find the
range per pound for 8v batteries does not math out to be equal at all. If I
figured the capacity of a T-875 and T-105 at an equal watt rate (figure the
t-105 at 100 amps and the T-875 at 75 amps) I always find the 8v battery
comming up short in watt/hours at faster (EV relevent) rates.

I really suggest a 96 to 120v of flooded 6v, or on Optima pack. I think the
8v batteries are best suited to those choosing a tradeoff of range for a
bit more power. I don't feel the tradeoff is a good one for me. However, it
may suit your needs, or your motors needs, better.

Neon

P.S. - please keep in touch. After all, we are both building VW Pickups. We
will share lots of things in common even if each is very different.