1980_Commuta_Car_Yellow_Tires1980_Commuta_Car_Yellow_Interior
OwnerEdward Maloney
LocationNorthridge, California United States map
Vehicle1980 Commuter Vehicles Inc. Comuta Car
Bought relatively stock car that needed a rehab. Currently stripping car and rebuilding everything!
Motor Tele-Sun 48V 220A 14HP Series Wound DC
Got a great price for the motor, supposedly the Dana diff can handle up to 20hp. I am hoping this can increase my top speed.
DrivetrainCurrently has 6hp original motor, upgrading to 14hp!
ControllerAlltrax AXE-7245
Nice controller, can handle up to 72V in case later I need to increase voltage to get a little more speed.
Batteries48V 40 AH LiFePO4 w/charger and BMS, 48.00 Volt, Lithium-Polymer
Bought a couple of different packs with the same ratings, so I can do performance tests and see if one is better then the other. Effectively getting 48V 80AH from both.
System Voltage48 Volts
Charger Integrated BMS and charger with the above battery
Later if I spend more on the batteries I can spend more on a decent BMS and charger. Meantime, I was looking for a cost effective solution that gives me LiFePO4 technology, but didn't break the bank.
HeaterNone, as if right now, old system took heat off motor, but may not be able to use if new motor wont fit with it.
DC/DC Converter Martek # PVD-150-31RS
150W converter (only $10 from surplus)
Input: -40 to -65VDC
Output:
5Vdc / 15A
12Vdc/ 12A
3.3/2.9Vdc / 3A

7.25" x 4.00" x 1.63" UL, CE
InstrumentationStock dash board, to be updated with on board computer
Top SpeedCar's spedometer goes to 50 MPH, never had it driving yet, stock set up max speed was 40 MPH, I hope to have 60 MPH max with a cruising speed of 45-50 MPH. Likely will have to upgrade suspension and other issues to handle increased speed.
Range40 Miles (64 Kilometers)
Stock was something like 40 mile range. I'm happy if I can get 30 without stressing my batteries too much, I only need 20 for work.
Watt Hours/MileDon't know yet... Can't wait to find out.
EV Miles
Current:9,835 Miles (15,824 Kilometers)
 
    As of 7/12/2009
Seating Capacity2 adults
Curb Weight1,475 Pounds (670 Kilograms)
1475 Stock with lead acid batteries, I'm hoping to bring her in at just under 1000lbs
TiresAluminum rims, smaller tires (I'll update with sizes)
Conversion TimeSo far only 40+ hours with at least 200+ hours to go
Conversion CostI'm hoping total for everything does not exceed $6,000
Additional FeaturesI intend on doing some minor body modifications, including new lights, mirrors, etc. Looking for anything I can to reduce drag, and increase distance and speed, that is cost effective.
If initial tests do not provide me with at least 60 MPH with 30 mi range, I will modify and tinker until I reach that. Upon which it will be my daily driver to and from work.

code by jerry