OwnerChimer Clark
LocationNewport, North Carolina United States map
Email email image
Vehicle1986 Ford Aerostar
Motor Permanent Magnet DC
3 phase
Drivetrainelectric motor and 2 speed auto trans integrated in rear axle
ControllerGeneral Electric
custom made
BatteriesSodium Sulfur
50 KWh
System Voltage206 Volts
Charger
external, constant current predominately
Heaterfossil fuel heater, utilizing vans existing HVAC ducting
InstrumentationDigital custom made
Range100 Miles (160 Kilometers)
Seating Capacity2 adults (rear cargo area fitted with battery)
Tires517
Conversion Cost$465,000 based on museum records
This van is one of two that were constructed as a joint venture between Ford, DOE and GE as an advanced electrical drive system and as a test bed for sodium sulfur battery technology. After all the testing was completed this van went to Oak Ridge TN where is has been on display in the American Museum of Science and Technology for quite a number of years. I purchased the van from Oak Ridge National Laboratory in January 2004 with the intention of placing the drivetrain into a vehicle that was more appealing than an Aerostar van. (The sodium sulfur battery was gone before placement into the museum). However the project came to a halt when during our disassembly of the drive system it was discovered that the logic circuits from the controller had been removed prior to placement into the museum. I don't know where the other ETX-II van went so I am putting this one on the EV list for those who, like myself, enjoy the occasional interesting piece of EV history. As I uncover information of interest I will attempt to update this listing.

code by jerry