Re: Where to start?

[Peter VanDerWal <peterv@peoplepc.com>]

Both of those are good books.  The data is reasonably up to date. 
 Somewhat more powerfull motor controllers are now available and AC 
drive systems have come down from astronomical to mearly expensive 
(though possibly worth it if you want regen)

There are some new types of batteries available, however most of them 
are either extreemly expensive or still being evaluated.  Lead-Acid is 
still the battery of choice for most converters.

Sounds like you are going in the right direct, read the books, search 
the web, and hang out on this list (ask lots of questions, that's what 
we're here for).

P.S. If you can find one in good shape a Carmen Ghia makes an excellent 
EV.  Some of the most efficient EV conversions are made from Ghia's, 
plus they look great.  After market and OEM parts are widely available 
for VWs, motor to transmission adapters are readily available, and many 
folks (including a few on this list) have converted Ghias in the past so 
they can give you advice on what to look out for and tips on how to 
convert it.

Tony Perez wrote:

>Hi all,
>
>I just joined the list.  My wife and I were at the
>Chico Concours this past weekend and saw a karmen ghia
>converted to electric.  She was immediately sold on
>getting one of these.  So, we've decided to find an
>older car and convert it.  My question is where do I
>start?  Any good books out there for a beginner?   Any
>clubs in the Sacramento, Ca area that I can hang out
>with?  I've been doing some internet searching and
>found recommendations for a book called "Convert it"
>and "Build your own Electric Car" (or something like
>that.)  Are these books still up to date on the latest
>technology?  Any help would be appreciated.
>
>I've worked on cars and motorcycles before but this
>electric thing is all new to me.
>
>Thanks for any tips.
>
>Tony
>
>
>=====
>Tony Perez
>Sacramento, CA
>
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