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It's amusing how people are surprised by the fact that batteries are not included: you can't make one-size-fits-all-batteries because every car has differently
by TheRealPomax 7y ago
It's amusing how people are surprised by the fact that batteries are not included: you can't make one-size-fits-all-batteries because every car has differently sized areas and cavities where you might even safely fit them.
On the other hand, every single car has space for a motor like this, because they already have a motor like this.
If you're the kind of person who's comfortable swapping out entire engine blocks, then you're probably also the kind of person that appreciates not being forced into a battery configuration that doesn't fit your classic car/old timer.
- toomuchtodo 7y agoIf you’re performing a classic car conversion to an EV, you’re more likely to scavenge the powertrain of a totaled Tesla and install it into your classic car. These videos are numerous on YouTube if you want to check it out. Tesla battery pack modules can be conveniently arranged to fit your space constraints once broken down from the pack.
- twic 7y agoIn the very first paragraph of the article: > Dealing with salvaged EV drivetrains is difficult, with complex control and cooling systems. Scavenging something from a dead EV is something a serious hobbyist might do for themself. Swindon's product looks like something a mechanic could use to do commercial conversions they could issue a warranty on.
- toomuchtodo 7y agoRight. But the battery pack is the most important component, not the motor. Motors are relatively easy in comparison. It’s unlikely your mechanic is building battery packs, battery management systems, and then providing a long-term warranty for the entire system. A superior value proposition would be a company selling battery packs that are easily configurable for any vehicle’s internal physical layout, along with support and a warranty.
- amirhirsch 7y agoDon't you think that all mechanics will soon be providing conversion, battery packs, and even swapping batteries?
- toomuchtodo 7y agoNot in the slightest. Hobbyists will continue to perform conversions, everyone else is going to trade in their ICE vehicle for a purpose built EV from Tesla or other automakers. Consumers want an appliance, not a project car.
- mcny 7y agoI agree. A Tesla makes a great starting point for experimenting. However, I see the point that the grand parent comment is making. It would be nice to see this crate fit into more cars. However, There is no need to reinvent the wheel. I'd say for most cars, the batteries belong underneath the seats. But as far as I remember, Tesla had to put a thick sheet of steel or something (titanium?) under the battery for safety in case you drove over something? When we take the battery into consideration, I agree this rapidly becomes out of DIY territory. Now we need custom batteries and custom metal sheets to protect them but the idea of a common electric crate motor is still appealing because the motor becomes a commodity and it should help lower prices I'm thinking someone should do this for a popular make and model that sold in large numbers like an old toyota camry. In any case, I am happy to see progress in EV.
- toomuchtodo 7y ago> But as far as I remember, Tesla had to put a thick sheet of steel or something (titanium?) under the battery for safety in case you drove over something? A sheet of titanium under the battery pack to prevent object intrusion. S and X also have a tubular barrier near the front of the vehicle to break debris down before encountering the pack shield.