Quote:
Originally Posted by Mistel
I have been thinking about getting an electric car. I have been bidding on the few that come up on Ebay and looking at EV classified ads.
So I have been thinking maybe it would be better to do my own conversion. Typically you choose a light weight car like a Geo metro, but a 1990, 190e only weights about 2500 lbs. Are there any lighter late model Benz's? They have the advantage of being RWD which makes a conversion easier. It would also need to be a stick.
Any thoughts
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You're on the same page as I am. If you're in the same state, I'm planning on starting on a conversion as a high end scholastic project at the local CSU extension campus in Lancaster, CA.
I've been considering the different models, and for the best weight/modern criteria, the W202 chassis looks like the best bet. I just need to find one locally with some major engine/transmission issues so that I'm not "breaking" a perfectly good Benz (most would consider that sacrilege) .
My plan is to write a grant paper for this project and convert to an AC drive system with regenerative braking and efficiently managed subsystems (power steering, vacuum, power brakes, A/C). The charging system is really the "bread and butter" of my project design, although all of the subsystem work will be rather involved.
That being said, to do a simple conversion with DC motors for a 60-90 mile round trip commuter should be easily do-able. Check out
http://www.electroauto.com/(affordable) and
http://www.acpropulsion.com/(high-end/high-efficiency) for info.
Metric Mind is another good site.
If I am unable to acquire a W202, I will proceed to (in order), W201, W123, W124, W115, W210, W107 or W113. I wouldn't mind a W129, but I prefer to hold off on classics unless they are real basketcases.
Yes, I know that the W202 has been done already.
