OwnerWilliam McDaniel
LocationElk Grove Village, Illinois United States map
Web/EmailWebPage email image
Vehicle1992 BMW 325i
This is a BMW that I initially purchased used with 45k miles. I personally drove it until it had 220,236 miles. I replaced the clutch at about 160k miles and when I garaged it 4+ years ago it ran great, but, it needed a new starter and some engine work. The car was too much fun to throw away, so it has been converted to an all electric drive. The 5 speed transmission and clutch work fine, and they allow an emergency "cut-off" if required. A focus on cosmetics is the current project phase.
MotorNetgain Warp 11 Series Wound DC
DrivetrainOEM Getrag 5 Speed Manual Transmission
ControllerEvnetics Soliton1
Batteries12 Optima 31T, 144.00 Volt, Lead-Acid, AGM
These batteries are for initial testing. They will soon be replaced with LiFePO4 after all systems are proven operational. Battery pack is designed for hoist removal so that they can be transferred to a different project as warranted.
System Voltage144 Volts
Charger Xantrex XFR20-130
Currently being used for charging the pack. A 12+ volt charger is separately used for the separate electrical systems (lights, radio, etc.).
InstrumentationPair of JLD404s to monitor both pack and the 12 V electrical systems.
Top Speed25 MPH (40 KPH)
Have only driven it on community streets. Will now begin to adjust the controller performance parameters before taking it onto the Interstate.
Range18 Miles (28 Kilometers)
Calculated Range for Lead acid testing batteries.
Watt Hours/Mile400 Wh/Mile
Estimated
EV Miles
Start:220,236 Miles (354,359 Kilometers)
Current:220,246 Miles (354,375 Kilometers)
Total:10 Miles (16 Kilometers)
 
    As of 9/26/2015
Seating Capacity2 Adults (+ 2 children when battery tray is moved to hood)
Curb Weight4,056 Pounds (1,843 Kilograms)
TiresStock
Conversion Time2 years, with long breaks due to work requirements. Once all the parts are in stock, estimate that a new conversion (just working on weekends) would require about 3 months.
Conversion Cost$10,000 for parts and before the installation of AC, power steering, and power brakes.
Took first drive on street roads on July 11, 2015. Currently installing OEM AC and alternator using an accessories adapter plate. Intend to repaint the car after some TIG welding repairs are completed. A gratifying number of friends and neighbors are now asking for updates on the project.
Hope in the near future to offer an BMW E36 conversion kit so that others can duplicate the results.

code by jerry