Motor and EngineDigitizing the tranny bolt holesAdapter PlateFirst Drive!
OwnerTodd Hamilton
LocationPortland, Oregon US map
Web/EmailWebPage email image
Vehicle1976 BMW 2002
Purchased after it had been under a tarp for 8 years. '76 cars need to go through DEQ in Oregon, and this one wouldn't pass. That's when I started my conversion.
MotorHitachi probably, Series Wound DC
9", refurbished by Jim Husted to near-new condition.
ControllerKelly KDH12800B
Originally a KDH12400A, but that would only go about a block before overheating. The new controller works like a champ.
Batteries8, 12.00 Volt, Lead-Acid, Flooded
Had to return one that was DOA. Seem to work great so far, for the price.
System Voltage96 Volts
Charger
8 individual 10A chargers.
HeaterProbably a hair dryer, but nothing installed yet.
DC/DC Converter
I just run acc loads off of an auxiliary battery.
InstrumentationJust an ammeter so far. Would like to get a CycleAnalyst.
Top Speed45 MPH (72 KPH)
So far. Haven't been on the freeway yet.
AccelerationNot too shabby! Keeps up with traffic OK.
Range15 Miles (24 Kilometers)
This is the farthest I've gone on a full charge so far. From resting voltage, still had 60-70% capacity left.
Seating Capacity2 to begin with. The back seat is so nasty I'm going to leave it out.
Curb Weight0
Don't know. Probably won't.
Conversion TimeAlot, a little bit at a time.
Conversion CostI think I'm just over $5000 right now.
Additional FeaturesClutchless setup.
10/1/09: I've done one commute to work (15mi one-way) so far and it fared quite well. However, I told myself I needed to get the vacuum pump working for the brakes before doing anything else. Quick stops get the adrenalin going a little more than I'd like.

code by jerry