Motor support frameEngine bayInstrumentsFlower powerStored water heating systemHeating plumbing
OwnerJim Small
LocationSouthport, England United Kingdom map
Email email image
Vehicle2000 Fiat Seicento Sporting
Motor 48 Volt forklift motor Series Wound DC
From a Caterpillar forklift truck
specification unknown
DrivetrainRetained gearbox, flywheel & clutch.
ControllerCurtis 1209 72v 400A
Batteries6 Trojan 31XHS 130 Ah, 12.00 Volt, Lead-Acid, Flooded
2 batteries fitted above motor in engine
compartment and 4 fitted in vented box in
the trunk
System Voltage72 Volts
ChargerZivan NG1
Plus 12v charger for aux battery. Both
chargers fitted onboard with supply socket
in place of fuel filler.
HeaterStored water system consisting of 3kw
240v domestic water boiler plumbed into
the existing car water heater matrix
with small 12v circulating pump,
operates at 70 degrees C. System holds
10 ltrs of water which heats the whole
car up in 10 mins from domestic mains
electricity, once disconnected the
system will continue to heat the car
for a further 20 minutes. Heating is
very efficient and can get the car to
tropical temperatures. Very pleased
with results.
InstrumentationDigital panel meters for motor total
current, voltage and temperature plus 12v
aux voltage.
Top Speed45 MPH (72 KPH)
Use 2nd Gear to 20mph then 3rd. Using the clutch only to change gear
AccelerationGood to 40 mph,
Range20 Miles (32 Kilometers)
Watt Hours/Mile140 Wh/Mile
EV Miles
Start:75,220 Miles (121,028 Kilometers)
Current:76,700 Miles (123,410 Kilometers)
Total:1,480 Miles (2,381 Kilometers)
Seating Capacity4 adults
Curb Weight2,400 Pounds (1,090 Kilograms)
Tiresstandard fit 40 psi
Conversion Time2 months
Additional FeaturesThomas Vacuum pump fitted with custom made vacuum switch.
Rear subframe overhauled, new brake drums, shocks, shoes, disks and pads fitted. 90cfm blower fitted to motor to limit temperature to 50 deg C.
Very pleased with the conversion, the car has proved to be a usable form of urban transport, much better than
envisaged. Mods include xenon headlamps, LED sidelights and mp3 radio/player. The standard electric power steering is wonderful, an excellent basis for conversion.
The car is used almost every day for a 7 mile journey and recharges in approx 3 hrs. Will continue to use the existing batteries until depleated and then consider lithium ion.

code by jerry