Thanks! Most of it was DIY with some help from Bob at EV America. It cost around 6k without batteries, 12 years ago. It took about 3 months of weekend work to get it on the road
@TheGreenVW Sir, your bus is bad ass! I was thinking of doing this with a Beetle since they are easier to find. Where did you find all of your hardware for the conversion? I like the fact that it still uses a stick trans setup. That is by the far the coolest conversion I have seen yet. My hat is off to you sir ;)
It is an AdvanceDC 9" motor which cost around $1400 (the motor is now 11 years old with zero maintenance). With the original bus transaxle, top speed was around 75. The bus is currently equipped with a Rancho beetle transaxle which is purposely geared very low and will top out at 65 in 4th gear
Very nice bus :) Me and my dad are thinking of doing transforming our Green 1977 VW Kombi Camper into a electric type. It'll be alot of work. How much is to buy an elecrtic motor? Can you give me some tips? So that I can forward to my Dad. Thanks alot! :) it looks you put alot of effort into this VW good job!
Thanks! I did as much of the assembly as I could before taking the bus off the road. You can assemble most of the electrics (contactors, dc-dc convertor etc) ahead of time and then put it together in a modular approach. Make sure that your speed controller has a good heat sink and plenty of air flow. Email me with any specific questions. There are some good deals on motors on the ev-tradin post
The battery pack was down sized for my needs. it is certainly capable of more range with more batteries. Also, disability carts only move at a walking pace.
Thanks!. Yes 200 is possible and could be done now with Li Ion batteries but it would be very expensive. As it is now, it takes me to work, errands etc with no problems.
First time viewing the video and the van. VERY cool, very innovative. Kudos to you! What would it take to extend the touring range to 200 to 300 miles, or is that even possible? I've seen the electric Datsun and the electric drag bike. I'll have to check out the electric Camaro. Again, way to go. Cool AND practical.
Like the camper! Nice to see people pioneering this technology themselves looking for affordable and practical solutions [old vehicles,homebuild,various batery recharging options etc] rather than the engineers designing unaffordable and overengineered solutions for the big corporations. 50 mile range runabouts with 2 hour recharging costing far less than a conventional petrol small car should not be beyond the wits of engineers and I guess some of the homebuilders are showing the way forward.
not much rage dude...however it will not be long before the breakthrough happens and ev will be cool and everywhere..I love the home tec that is happening with ev.. ev bikes , go carts etc seem to be popping up all over and the tec is cheap. really nice bus.
Thanks. The range may not look like much, but it takes me to work, then to lunch and errands and back home every day. It does every thing that I need it to do. It can also be charged multiple times in a day.
@celticbobb quick question...pardon my ignorance n'all as I understand it an electric motor produces its torque from zero revolutions...so this mitigates the use of a clutch and gearbox...did I see you using the gearbox?
it does. i could start off in 4th gear if i chose to but it draws a lot more power. think of riding a mountain bike and compare the amount of energy that it takes to start from a complete stop. You use much less energy if you start of in 1st gear as compared to starting off in 18th gear. i kept the trans for better range
Thanks! It takes me to work and back along with errands every day that weather permits. I have a pusher trailer that takes me on that rare out of town trip.
Simply by being electric it is vastly cleaner that the original gasoline engine, yes, even considering the pollution created by the production of the electricity. Even greener still by my purchase electricity produced from solar and biomass
@TheGreenVW really the only way you couldnt look it as green would eb hte waste from disposing of the bateries once worn out. but anyways back on topic. whats hte range? this was pretty sweet looking/running
Thanks! The battery disposal is actually not a problem. These types of batteries (large format) are nearly completely recycled after they have been used. They don't wind up in the trash can like AA's. Range with the 4D is 40 to 60 miles. I just switched to a smaller group 31 odyssey that is giving me 30 miles while reducing the weight of the bus by 600 lbs.
@TheGreenVW right. NEARLY recycled. but ehh good enough for me :). hell 40-60 miles or with new group, 30 miles. still pretty good. good enough for errand running. or going to work IF you have a plug in on site
@TheGreenVW Nothing creates as much pollution as the creation of fuel.
It takes 7.5KWH of energy to make a gallon of refined oil. That 7.5Kwh will take this bus as far as a gallon due to its more efficient delivery system.
@TheGreenVW --roughly how much did the entire conversion cost you or did you just buy the parts and do it yourself, either way how much and how long?....the bus looks amazing
Yes, I have disc brakes. The total weight is still under the GVWR and is centered and low in the vehicle. It actually rides and handles better than the original configuration.
The bus has been configured in a couple of different ways in regards to gearing and batteries. Max range with the 4D size batteries - 40 to 60 miles depending on terrain and driving style. Top speed with the gas engine was 68 mph. With stock gearing It is faster and much quieter as an electric.
GOOD JOB!! I have a friend who has a VW Bus Shell...Wish I can talk him into doing this to his Bus! No more emissions!!! I've been studying electric cars! I'm sick of paying high prices of gas at the pumps!!!!! And I love VWs!!
Wow! This is super inspiring. So I have amid 70's Westfalia on which I would love to do this sort of conversion. My issue is that I would also like the option to take it on longer trips than 50 miles.
So you say you have 27kw of batteries. Does that mean you are getting about 27kw/h at highway speeds? If so, that means that a decent portable diesel generator would take 4 or 5 hours to charge this setup... maybe? Also, Do the batteries, controller, or charging system get hot when in use?
Thanks! The belt is connected to an A/C compressor. It engages only when you lift the throttle. The energy that would normally be wasted as brake heat turns the compressor instead of the battery pack. This setup also helps slow the electric motor between gear shifts, as the motor has no compression. It will maintain 45 degrees in stop and go traffic.
Thanks! If it makes you feel any better, when I'm cruising around and catch a whiff of raw gasoline, I still instinctively reach for the fire extinquisher in a panic! Some habits are hard to break.
awsome job,i'm in the middle of converting a 1986 vw syncro.nice to see i'm using the same batteries you used.hows the range and how many watt hours of batteries do you have?what gears do you find you mainly use?
thanks! range is 40 to 60 miles. 27kw of batteries. I have a Rancho Trans with very low gears. I use all 4 speeds. It tops out around 70 in 4th at 5000 rpm.
Holy Jesus, that is a sweet ass wagon! My neighbor has one that i hate. it reminds me of Texas chain saw massacre or something b/c its all rusted, dirty and LOUD!
Also what was the cost of that motor ?and is it the high end option as efficiency and output are concerned?how far can you go on power before it is wastfull and too expensive? What is the amps and voltage rating? If you cant answer all its ok my thoughts are to do tha to my 69 camaro do you know anyone who has done a muscle car with performance probrably expensive?Again nice install and those wheels are cool
motor was 1500. 10 years with no maintenance! it is efficient and can be updated with heavier duty components. not sure what you mean by: "how far can you go on power before it is wastfull and too expensive". Even factoring in periodic battery replacement, it is still cheaper than using gas. You can see an ev camaro and very fast ev datsun by doing a search on Rev Gadgets Camaro and Plasmaboyracing
impossible to a thing like this in the fascist states of europe....one isn't simply allowed on the road with such conversions......the free west? yeah, right...a bloody totalirian state
I wanted the vintage vehicle without the on-going maintenance issues and gross polluter status. It has been an electric for 10 years and in that time I have only had to replace brake pads once and batteries twice. I did as much of the work as possible before taking out the gas engine. It was off the road for about a month.
@TheGreenVW Amazing i really liked the marine chargers,that are rebuildable,i would like to learn how you set that up!!and what the ev motor size is and what the van weighs? it really seems to scoot along nicely ,Great looking bus and a clean job thanks...
Nice...very nice! I have three splittys and a bug & if I ever blow an engine...it'll become an EV (did that already to an old Datsun 620 & am pleased with it). I'd think a single cab would be the best candidate as far as VW's go...the batteries can pretty much go below the bed in the treasure chest area.
Q4. The lowered van looks great. If I try to do it, I will need the maximum ground clearance. Did you lower the van due to looks or due to weight distribution, center of gravity?
A1. About 10k including batteries. I could have spent less but did not want to cut any corners. I have had it on the road for 10 years and have only had to replace batteries
I purchased many of the components from bob at ev america. He was very helpful and provided an electrical diagram as well. I would be happy to answer any specific questions that you may have
A3. The electric motor tends to produce more as you put it under more load. With the original bus trans/reduction boxes, the bus had no trouble going 70, it just draws more power. Acceleration should not be a problem as long as you have at least 120 volts
Switching to the beetle trans eliminates the reduction boxes and lowers the rear. Since it is still a swingaxle, it cannot be adjusted without affecting the rear alignment. I should have switched to irs for more options. It does hanle a lot better now. The front disc brakes also make it much more drivable
Thanks for your detailed answers to all four of my questions.
As far as the #4 question. forgive me since I don't understand all the mechanical language. If you started the conversion over again would it be possible to build it with a standard ride height at the rear and front?
1) The batteries life expectency in my application is about four years. They die a very slow death over the four years so range deteriorates over time. When new the range is around 50 miles per charge (you can charge several times a day if needed). The bus has been on the road as an electric for 10 years. As such, I am on my third set a batteries. When I removed the two sets at their 4 year mark, the range was down to about 20 miles.
2) I have driven it at speeds over 75 mph. When I replaced the bus transaxle with a beefed up Rancho beetle unit, I had them gear the unit with lower gearing for better range and acceleration but a lower top speed. It is currently geared for a top cruising speed of 55 mph. The bus resides on an island with a top speed limit of 50 mph, so higher top speeds are not needed.
Thanks! Yes the motor uses a VW transaxle so you still shift, but since the motor does not need to idle, you don't have to hold in the clutch at stop lights. The headlights run off of a seperate small house battery which is recharged by a dc-dc convertor and also by one of the ouputs from the battery chargers so headlights are no problem.
I have two questions - 1. Is there any way to dampen the sound of the batteries because its quite a bit louder than wut id normally hear on a gas car and 2. do you power it with your home's electric connection or do you use some kind of self-sustaining energy source like solar or wind?
To answer question 1; the batteries don't actually make any noise. The noise at speeds under 2 mph is from the speed controller. Not all controllers make this noise, but this one is reliable and affordable, so I put up with it. It comes in handy when driving thru parking lots, otherwise pedestrians don't know that I am behind them. The noise that you hear going down the road is from the transmission. Turns out that they are noisy. You just can't hear them above the gasoline engine
In regard to question 2; I do power it from my home electric connection. Unfortunately, it is from Coal power, as far as I know. The only choice that I have other than the power grid is to install solar panels which is still a few years down the road, on my budget. Any way that you look at it, the power is still cleaner than the pre-emissions era exhaust that was coming out of my tailpipe.
the a/c engages only when the throttle is lifted. with every upshift and downshift and coasting down to a stop the a/c engages. with this method the a/c comp is never powered by the batteries but by the energy that would have been wasted as brake heat. in stop and go traffic it will maintain 45 deg. on the the hwy just open the windshields.
Finally....an electric vehicle that I really like!
maverickdallas100 1 week ago
Very nice! but better is use a high rpm motor, then it has more power electromotors can easely get to 10.000 rpm.
keesijp49 1 week ago
This is sooooooooooo badass!!!
steeloavenger 3 weeks ago
Thanks! Most of it was DIY with some help from Bob at EV America. It cost around 6k without batteries, 12 years ago. It took about 3 months of weekend work to get it on the road
TheGreenVW 4 weeks ago
@TheGreenVW Do you plan on upgrading it with newer tech? And how is the handling with all that extra weight.
Awesome project.
preske 2 days ago
Batteries, yes. The weight is not a problem. I am still well below the rated gvwr. Thanks!
TheGreenVW 2 days ago
This guy looks like an actor, just remember the actors name
DirtyTDIDiesel 4 weeks ago
Кто даст консультацию по электро мотору ?
MsSMOTOR 1 month ago
@TheGreenVW Sir, your bus is bad ass! I was thinking of doing this with a Beetle since they are easier to find. Where did you find all of your hardware for the conversion? I like the fact that it still uses a stick trans setup. That is by the far the coolest conversion I have seen yet. My hat is off to you sir ;)
theduke502 1 month ago
Thanks! Most of the conversion pieces were purchased from Bob at EV America
TheGreenVW 1 month ago
SWEEEEEEEET
1BustedMyth 1 month ago
What motor did you use, and approx cost? Top speed of bus?
tzedekyahu 1 month ago
It is an AdvanceDC 9" motor which cost around $1400 (the motor is now 11 years old with zero maintenance). With the original bus transaxle, top speed was around 75. The bus is currently equipped with a Rancho beetle transaxle which is purposely geared very low and will top out at 65 in 4th gear
TheGreenVW 1 month ago
Who's the man ! You the man !
rossy990888 1 month ago
Thanks!
Signed,
The Man
TheGreenVW 1 month ago
range with new smaller group 31 odysseys is about 30 miles
TheGreenVW 1 month ago
how far can you go between chargings?
70clint 1 month ago
It must weigh a ton!
4crevis 1 month ago
1.65 tons to be exact
TheGreenVW 1 month ago
This is so awesome. I'm getting ready to start my own project but I'm aiming for a 600+ mile range... and I plan on using a VW Bus too.
72mharris 2 months ago
Very nice bus :) Me and my dad are thinking of doing transforming our Green 1977 VW Kombi Camper into a electric type. It'll be alot of work. How much is to buy an elecrtic motor? Can you give me some tips? So that I can forward to my Dad. Thanks alot! :) it looks you put alot of effort into this VW good job!
Vader1690 2 months ago
Thanks! I did as much of the assembly as I could before taking the bus off the road. You can assemble most of the electrics (contactors, dc-dc convertor etc) ahead of time and then put it together in a modular approach. Make sure that your speed controller has a good heat sink and plenty of air flow. Email me with any specific questions. There are some good deals on motors on the ev-tradin post
TheGreenVW 2 months ago
@TheGreenVW Alright, Thanks alot! you been a great help!
Vader1690 2 months ago
GO FORWARD,DON`T STOP NOW,KEEP ON THE RIGHT PATH,(but warnin,the BIG OIL COMPANYS AND CAR MAKERS,HATE GUYS LIKE YOU.
ilililhy1 2 months ago
How long does it run?
TonyFirelli 2 months ago
range with new smaller group 31 odysseys is about 30 miles
TheGreenVW 2 months ago
@TheGreenVW Wow... some electric disability carts have got more range than that!
4crevis 1 month ago
The battery pack was down sized for my needs. it is certainly capable of more range with more batteries. Also, disability carts only move at a walking pace.
TheGreenVW 1 month ago
this is cool thanks for uploading it
xr8dpixel 2 months ago
Thanks!. Yes 200 is possible and could be done now with Li Ion batteries but it would be very expensive. As it is now, it takes me to work, errands etc with no problems.
TheGreenVW 3 months ago
First time viewing the video and the van. VERY cool, very innovative. Kudos to you! What would it take to extend the touring range to 200 to 300 miles, or is that even possible? I've seen the electric Datsun and the electric drag bike. I'll have to check out the electric Camaro. Again, way to go. Cool AND practical.
bigdaveonbass 3 months ago
t1???
marsL001 3 months ago
I want one!!
xxxJinGejxxx 4 months ago
Like the camper! Nice to see people pioneering this technology themselves looking for affordable and practical solutions [old vehicles,homebuild,various batery recharging options etc] rather than the engineers designing unaffordable and overengineered solutions for the big corporations. 50 mile range runabouts with 2 hour recharging costing far less than a conventional petrol small car should not be beyond the wits of engineers and I guess some of the homebuilders are showing the way forward.
frglee 4 months ago
not much rage dude...however it will not be long before the breakthrough happens and ev will be cool and everywhere..I love the home tec that is happening with ev.. ev bikes , go carts etc seem to be popping up all over and the tec is cheap. really nice bus.
celticbobb 4 months ago
Thanks. The range may not look like much, but it takes me to work, then to lunch and errands and back home every day. It does every thing that I need it to do. It can also be charged multiple times in a day.
TheGreenVW 4 months ago 3
@celticbobb quick question...pardon my ignorance n'all as I understand it an electric motor produces its torque from zero revolutions...so this mitigates the use of a clutch and gearbox...did I see you using the gearbox?
celticbobb 4 months ago
it does. i could start off in 4th gear if i chose to but it draws a lot more power. think of riding a mountain bike and compare the amount of energy that it takes to start from a complete stop. You use much less energy if you start of in 1st gear as compared to starting off in 18th gear. i kept the trans for better range
TheGreenVW 4 months ago
@TheGreenVW right...thanks for quick respone. and once again...class job.
helstontvx 4 months ago
I'm waiting for the "Mr Fusion" garbage reactor to generate the 1.21 Gigawatts of electricity I need to go 0 to 88 Mph in 5 secs 8D
jamslau 4 months ago
The coolest thing ever. Wish I had that on my bug.
imfercho 4 months ago
very nice mate....
whats the autonomy of it ??
or better ''watts'' the autonomy of it?? lol
and 1 last thing.
how much does the conversion cost? just to buy it.. not installed
thanks
ae70gts 4 months ago
costs approx. 6k without the batteries. range with new smaller group 31 odysseys is about 30 miles
TheGreenVW 4 months ago
This sounds and acceleration are awensome!
wdowa94 4 months ago in playlist Liked
IF YOU BUILD IT WE WILL BUY IT !!!!!!!!! NOW I WISH I HADN'T SOLD MY 1961 BUS,DAM IT!! IS THIS A DAILY DRIVER? HAIL VICTORY OVER OIL COMPANIES!!!!
BIODIESEL1962 5 months ago
yes, daily driver on dry days. not due to ev but rust prone bus.
TheGreenVW 5 months ago
Can I call it the "Voltswagen"?
Streamliner009 5 months ago 3
hands down the kwelest electric ''DUB-BUS'' I have ever seen !...realy nice job bro !...peace
seahorsecowboys 5 months ago
Thank You!
TheGreenVW 5 months ago
very nice, and clean! =D but, how many kilometers of autonomy does it have?
spongebobblackpants 5 months ago
Thanks! It takes me to work and back along with errands every day that weather permits. I have a pusher trailer that takes me on that rare out of town trip.
TheGreenVW 5 months ago
Thanks It handles as well as it ever has! The weight is not a problem. It is low and centered. It has better acceleration and top speed than stock.
TheGreenVW 5 months ago
How does it handle? Doesn't the weight of the batterypack cause any problems?
And how does it do performance-wise?
Love the safari-windows.
preske 5 months ago
I bet the heater works the same. =^)
bedrockamps 6 months ago
I love that it has A/C too! Awesome!
realvanman1 6 months ago
Very nice T1! Who wants a Tesla when you can have one like this?!
LaGantoise 7 months ago 6
Thanks! I have to agree!
TheGreenVW 7 months ago 3
I want more videos! :)
87nicoh 7 months ago
I LIKE IT vw bus Nice Microbus Nice Batteries TheGreenVW
blacklobo82 7 months ago
Simply by being electric it is vastly cleaner that the original gasoline engine, yes, even considering the pollution created by the production of the electricity. Even greener still by my purchase electricity produced from solar and biomass
TheGreenVW 7 months ago 6
@TheGreenVW really the only way you couldnt look it as green would eb hte waste from disposing of the bateries once worn out. but anyways back on topic. whats hte range? this was pretty sweet looking/running
yamahonkawazuki 7 months ago
Thanks! The battery disposal is actually not a problem. These types of batteries (large format) are nearly completely recycled after they have been used. They don't wind up in the trash can like AA's. Range with the 4D is 40 to 60 miles. I just switched to a smaller group 31 odyssey that is giving me 30 miles while reducing the weight of the bus by 600 lbs.
TheGreenVW 7 months ago 3
@TheGreenVW right. NEARLY recycled. but ehh good enough for me :). hell 40-60 miles or with new group, 30 miles. still pretty good. good enough for errand running. or going to work IF you have a plug in on site
yamahonkawazuki 7 months ago
@TheGreenVW Nothing creates as much pollution as the creation of fuel.
It takes 7.5KWH of energy to make a gallon of refined oil. That 7.5Kwh will take this bus as far as a gallon due to its more efficient delivery system.
m1aws 6 months ago
@TheGreenVW --roughly how much did the entire conversion cost you or did you just buy the parts and do it yourself, either way how much and how long?....the bus looks amazing
DirtyTDIDiesel 4 weeks ago
Looks heavy, do you have disk brakes on your bus, or how do you handle the extra weight and keep it relatively safe?
volksboy62 7 months ago
Yes, I have disc brakes. The total weight is still under the GVWR and is centered and low in the vehicle. It actually rides and handles better than the original configuration.
TheGreenVW 7 months ago
I love that you were able to keep the transmission in there :D
TheGeek1028 7 months ago
wow nice work man ....
venkbabu66 7 months ago
Incredible job, thank you for sharing this. So jealous...
hunglo1967 7 months ago
Wow, clean bus, how long those your batteries last for?
DSCKSR 7 months ago
the concordes are good for about 3 years
TheGreenVW 7 months ago
i'm almost done with my 74. does yours accelerate better than one with an i.c.e.?
taterfamine 8 months ago
sure does
TheGreenVW 8 months ago
How much did the entire system costed you?
wjh2030 8 months ago
about 6k plus batteries
TheGreenVW 8 months ago
excelent !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
leoboludo 8 months ago
can you drive this when it rains??????
777cinnamon 8 months ago
Sure, no problem
TheGreenVW 8 months ago
Nice Video and sweet ride!
did you connect the motor directly to the transmission?
thecrism1 8 months ago
REALLY GREAT! CONGRAT!
rothermel 8 months ago
What's your max range and top speed?
FBISPA 8 months ago
The bus has been configured in a couple of different ways in regards to gearing and batteries. Max range with the 4D size batteries - 40 to 60 miles depending on terrain and driving style. Top speed with the gas engine was 68 mph. With stock gearing It is faster and much quieter as an electric.
TheGreenVW 8 months ago
This has to be one of the coolest splitty's I've ever seen. Great work!
gregherbert123 8 months ago
I was browsing the comments and didn't see a total cost of your project. If you don't mind sharing... How much did this beauty cost you?
jamminjesus 8 months ago
about 6k plus batteries
TheGreenVW 8 months ago
HOLY.CRAP. when i get a car i want one like thisXD
DavidMichealPerre 8 months ago
such a beutiful vehicle I dream that I can have one of these one day, hopefully I can find a deal on one for my 16th birthday hahaha
xxxgangstatuberx 9 months ago
ev cars sound like the subway. =D
jcvcomfg1 9 months ago 11
@jcvcomfg1 To me it's more like a tram, subway is noiseless around here :).
heloizyjhenifer 5 months ago
GOOD JOB!! I have a friend who has a VW Bus Shell...Wish I can talk him into doing this to his Bus! No more emissions!!! I've been studying electric cars! I'm sick of paying high prices of gas at the pumps!!!!! And I love VWs!!
TheKarenality 9 months ago
nice
kramd1 9 months ago
Wow! This is super inspiring. So I have amid 70's Westfalia on which I would love to do this sort of conversion. My issue is that I would also like the option to take it on longer trips than 50 miles.
So you say you have 27kw of batteries. Does that mean you are getting about 27kw/h at highway speeds? If so, that means that a decent portable diesel generator would take 4 or 5 hours to charge this setup... maybe? Also, Do the batteries, controller, or charging system get hot when in use?
subliminalrich 9 months ago
cool, i like the colour
stephmc111 10 months ago
Great Video. On the electric motor, what is the belt connected to?
jasonmotley 10 months ago
Thanks! The belt is connected to an A/C compressor. It engages only when you lift the throttle. The energy that would normally be wasted as brake heat turns the compressor instead of the battery pack. This setup also helps slow the electric motor between gear shifts, as the motor has no compression. It will maintain 45 degrees in stop and go traffic.
TheGreenVW 10 months ago
Whats the 'top speed' on it?
gomerpilot 10 months ago
with stock gearing, it was near 80. Currently, I have it geared down to a cruising speed of 60
TheGreenVW 10 months ago
@TheGreenVW 80 mile/h or km/h? sweet ride tho.. you really inspired me! i have a 1979 micro bus in my garage that now i wanna turn electric.
siddepoo 8 months ago
mph
TheGreenVW 8 months ago
Man - I'd miss that VW aircooled engine sound and smell, but that's wicked cool!
manikmiker 10 months ago
Thanks! If it makes you feel any better, when I'm cruising around and catch a whiff of raw gasoline, I still instinctively reach for the fire extinquisher in a panic! Some habits are hard to break.
TheGreenVW 10 months ago
I want an electric VW Bus! :) SO AMAZING
34mckayla 11 months ago
Nice work. Coolest EV I've seen. Makes me miss my 67 bus and I'm Glad you lowered it too.
I should electrify my old Volvo, but I won't.
UberElectricEagle 11 months ago
awsome job,i'm in the middle of converting a 1986 vw syncro.nice to see i'm using the same batteries you used.hows the range and how many watt hours of batteries do you have?what gears do you find you mainly use?
jjmommy100 11 months ago
thanks! range is 40 to 60 miles. 27kw of batteries. I have a Rancho Trans with very low gears. I use all 4 speeds. It tops out around 70 in 4th at 5000 rpm.
TheGreenVW 11 months ago
@TheGreenVW How many volts? How many batteries? I've got a '73 bug I would like to convert and a Vanagon too.
marshgre 11 months ago
120 volts. 10 AGM Batteries (size 4D)
TheGreenVW 11 months ago
@TheGreenVW Can you Do a Up date / tour Video of the van now ?
NoWayItsChris 10 months ago
Holy Jesus, that is a sweet ass wagon! My neighbor has one that i hate. it reminds me of Texas chain saw massacre or something b/c its all rusted, dirty and LOUD!
Perfectasthis 1 year ago
Also what was the cost of that motor ?and is it the high end option as efficiency and output are concerned?how far can you go on power before it is wastfull and too expensive? What is the amps and voltage rating? If you cant answer all its ok my thoughts are to do tha to my 69 camaro do you know anyone who has done a muscle car with performance probrably expensive?Again nice install and those wheels are cool
deannaber 1 year ago
motor was 1500. 10 years with no maintenance! it is efficient and can be updated with heavier duty components. not sure what you mean by: "how far can you go on power before it is wastfull and too expensive". Even factoring in periodic battery replacement, it is still cheaper than using gas. You can see an ev camaro and very fast ev datsun by doing a search on Rev Gadgets Camaro and Plasmaboyracing
TheGreenVW 1 year ago
impossible to a thing like this in the fascist states of europe....one isn't simply allowed on the road with such conversions......the free west? yeah, right...a bloody totalirian state
hansvgbe 1 year ago
is it for sale?
cruzun007 1 year ago
So what made you want to do this modification to your VW and how did you go about building the amazingly cool van.
kowyn2 1 year ago
I wanted the vintage vehicle without the on-going maintenance issues and gross polluter status. It has been an electric for 10 years and in that time I have only had to replace brake pads once and batteries twice. I did as much of the work as possible before taking out the gas engine. It was off the road for about a month.
TheGreenVW 1 year ago 2
@TheGreenVW Amazing i really liked the marine chargers,that are rebuildable,i would like to learn how you set that up!!and what the ev motor size is and what the van weighs? it really seems to scoot along nicely ,Great looking bus and a clean job thanks...
deannaber 1 year ago
Thanks! The charger setup is straight forward. It has individual outputs for each battery. It has a 9" Advanced DC Motor. Van weighs 3600 lbs.
TheGreenVW 1 year ago
no way that's to freaking sweet
kowyn2 1 year ago
SUPER!!!
tatraplan600 1 year ago
wow, air conditioning too.
tascheri 1 year ago
Really nice job!
EletrikRidesAgain 1 year ago
40 to 60 miles with a 1 to 2 hour recharge time
TheGreenVW 1 year ago
Stickin it to OPEC bastards
votblindub 1 year ago
Very very nice :) like it a lot!
ImYourLastResort 1 year ago
Nice...very nice! I have three splittys and a bug & if I ever blow an engine...it'll become an EV (did that already to an old Datsun 620 & am pleased with it). I'd think a single cab would be the best candidate as far as VW's go...the batteries can pretty much go below the bed in the treasure chest area.
mellotrongirl 1 year ago
Q4. The lowered van looks great. If I try to do it, I will need the maximum ground clearance. Did you lower the van due to looks or due to weight distribution, center of gravity?
LagunaTicTube 1 year ago
Fantastic, Great job.
Q1. Do you know what it cost you in labor and parts?
Q2. Thank you for already sharing specs on your site evalbum_com/384.
I am also thinking of doing this myself.
Previously ‘scottbeowolf’ asked: “Do you have any advice, or can you provide diagrams for the system?”
Q3. If you changed the ratios to have a higher top speed for LA Freeways how slow would the acceleration be? If the top speed is say 70 MPH.
Thanks
LagunaTicTube 1 year ago
A1. About 10k including batteries. I could have spent less but did not want to cut any corners. I have had it on the road for 10 years and have only had to replace batteries
TheGreenVW 1 year ago
I purchased many of the components from bob at ev america. He was very helpful and provided an electrical diagram as well. I would be happy to answer any specific questions that you may have
TheGreenVW 1 year ago
A3. The electric motor tends to produce more as you put it under more load. With the original bus trans/reduction boxes, the bus had no trouble going 70, it just draws more power. Acceleration should not be a problem as long as you have at least 120 volts
TheGreenVW 1 year ago
Switching to the beetle trans eliminates the reduction boxes and lowers the rear. Since it is still a swingaxle, it cannot be adjusted without affecting the rear alignment. I should have switched to irs for more options. It does hanle a lot better now. The front disc brakes also make it much more drivable
TheGreenVW 1 year ago
@TheGreenVW
Thanks for your detailed answers to all four of my questions.
As far as the #4 question. forgive me since I don't understand all the mechanical language. If you started the conversion over again would it be possible to build it with a standard ride height at the rear and front?
LagunaTicTube 1 year ago
Yes. The bus was an electric at standard ride height for 7 years
TheGreenVW 1 year ago
thats a nice vw by normal standards but being electric powered is awesome. i have a couple of questions though.
1. how much battery life does a full charge have/how many mile or kilometers do you get from it?
2. what is the van's top speed?
thanks
cherrycola96 1 year ago
Thanks!
1) The batteries life expectency in my application is about four years. They die a very slow death over the four years so range deteriorates over time. When new the range is around 50 miles per charge (you can charge several times a day if needed). The bus has been on the road as an electric for 10 years. As such, I am on my third set a batteries. When I removed the two sets at their 4 year mark, the range was down to about 20 miles.
TheGreenVW 1 year ago
2) I have driven it at speeds over 75 mph. When I replaced the bus transaxle with a beefed up Rancho beetle unit, I had them gear the unit with lower gearing for better range and acceleration but a lower top speed. It is currently geared for a top cruising speed of 55 mph. The bus resides on an island with a top speed limit of 50 mph, so higher top speeds are not needed.
TheGreenVW 1 year ago
Classy! how is it to stop the beast?
thecrism1 1 year ago
The stock brakes were replaced with Porsche 944 Disc brakes and Wilwood 4 piston calipers so it stops very well!
TheGreenVW 1 year ago
Great build! Did I hear you shifting gears? Aren't the headlights a real battery drainer? I imagine hi-beam usage is a no-no.
Donelson68 1 year ago
Thanks! Yes the motor uses a VW transaxle so you still shift, but since the motor does not need to idle, you don't have to hold in the clutch at stop lights. The headlights run off of a seperate small house battery which is recharged by a dc-dc convertor and also by one of the ouputs from the battery chargers so headlights are no problem.
TheGreenVW 1 year ago
I have two questions - 1. Is there any way to dampen the sound of the batteries because its quite a bit louder than wut id normally hear on a gas car and 2. do you power it with your home's electric connection or do you use some kind of self-sustaining energy source like solar or wind?
Bizdet 1 year ago
To answer question 1; the batteries don't actually make any noise. The noise at speeds under 2 mph is from the speed controller. Not all controllers make this noise, but this one is reliable and affordable, so I put up with it. It comes in handy when driving thru parking lots, otherwise pedestrians don't know that I am behind them. The noise that you hear going down the road is from the transmission. Turns out that they are noisy. You just can't hear them above the gasoline engine
TheGreenVW 1 year ago
In regard to question 2; I do power it from my home electric connection. Unfortunately, it is from Coal power, as far as I know. The only choice that I have other than the power grid is to install solar panels which is still a few years down the road, on my budget. Any way that you look at it, the power is still cleaner than the pre-emissions era exhaust that was coming out of my tailpipe.
TheGreenVW 1 year ago
That's a really nice driveway, and bus !
Veikra 1 year ago
you got the coolest driveway!!!!
rollipolioli 1 year ago
dreamy!
WorldStove 1 year ago
wOw
Violingirlalien 1 year ago
Genius! Beautiful!
Abbakus79 1 year ago
the pusher trailer is a more direct route to propulsion and more efficient than the generator. check out evalbum.com to see a few pusher trailers
TheGreenVW 1 year ago
How do you keep the Air conditioner compressor running when you are stopped? Does the electric motor have some kind of idle?
heatherandpaul2 1 year ago
the a/c engages only when the throttle is lifted. with every upshift and downshift and coasting down to a stop the a/c engages. with this method the a/c comp is never powered by the batteries but by the energy that would have been wasted as brake heat. in stop and go traffic it will maintain 45 deg. on the the hwy just open the windshields.
TheGreenVW 1 year ago
@TheGreenVW nice thats a really smart way to do the AC
Bizdet 1 year ago
Very nice work, I'm seriously considering doing this myself! Do you have any advice, or can you provide diagrams for the system?
Once again, sweet ride!
scottbeowolf 1 year ago
SUPER SICK!!
6bettyboo9 1 year ago
my dream car!
akgregor 1 year ago