Re: Newbie enquiry

[ScuderiaEV@aol.com]

In a message dated 29/11/01 14:16:09 GMT Standard Time, 
phil.norris@virgin.net writes:

> Helo everyone, I'm Phil Norris from the UK.  I currently run a Landrover 110
>  SW and have found the L-R conversion over at Wilde EVolutions.  I'm tempted
>  to convert my truck but am a complete novice to the whole scene.  I've been
>  lurking for a few days to try and pick up the jargo but still don't know
>  what contactors or prescalers do or what battery strings I should need or
>  anything. Are there any faq sites around I could use as a primer? for EVs
>  and Hybrids?

Welcome to another UK listmember!

Although the Electric Car Association is currently in hibernation, I'm still 
happy to fulfil my role as technical officer and field any questions you have.

>  I'm also thinking that maybe an easy project would get me going before I 
did
>  my Landie so am looking at Electro Automotives Rabbit/Golf kit to build up
>  then sell on for the experience...  What does anyone think of their
>  specs/parts etc?  Are they good to buy from?

EA are a fine company with a sound reputation, if a trifle low performance 
(in acceleration and speed, not range) by today's standards, but I can see a 
couple of problems. One, the UK market for second hand EV's is very limited, 
you might have real trouble getting more than a small fraction of the value 
of the vehicle. Convert to keep, not to sell, or do a 'budget' conversion 
first. Two, I seriously doubt the Voltsrabbit kit will fit a RHD car without 
a good deal of modification. Once you've lost the 'bolt in' feature, you've 
lost much of the appeal of the comprehensive kit. I had to fabricate an 
entirely new operating linkage, servo, and mastercylinder mounting for my VW 
Scirocco conversion (Mk1 Golf (Rabbit-US) floorpan) to accommodate the 
battery pack (my design, not EA). There are UK sources for most of the parts 
you would need, although shipping rates from the US are less than you might 
think.

Putting on my salesman's hat for a moment, I do have a number of surplus EV 
components and/or projects for sale. I might even have just the motor for a 
Landrover conversion.


Paul Compton
www.sciroccoev.co.uk
01582 763133 ext 2413 work
01582 573195 home