[ausev] ev survey for college research project

[Rob Hirschfeld]

Emily,

My answers based on my experience w/ the RAVolt.
>
> What do you like most about EVs?

Renewable, ubiquitous fuel

> I gather from my reading that a homemade EV will cost in the  
> neighborhood of: $2000-$5000 donor car, $5000-$10,000 parts, 500 hrs  
> labor.  Is this in the ballpark?

Yes.  My labor was less than 500 - closer to 200, but my parts cost  
was at the high end of your scale.  It think it would be more  
practical to express this in terms of $ per mile of range.  I paid  
$10k for a 30 mile range.

> Do you find it a problem to find places to charge your vehicle?

Yes, but that was my choice.  I choose 220 V.  I regret that.  A 110  
charging system would have been better.

> I have seen estimates of about $0.05/mile operating cost, including  
> periodic replacement batteries.  Does this seem close to your  
> experience?

This varies a lot depending on vehicle and cost of fuel - just like  
MPG.  Also, gas includes road taxes that electrons do not.  However,  
it IS cheaper per mile.

> I see ranges of 40-80 miles.  Does this seem reasonable in your  
> experience?

Not for Pb systems.  40 seems like a top end to me.  Remember, lead- 
acid systems age and loose range.

> Are repairs much of an issue?

Not yet.  The EV system is pretty simple; however, I can't take it to  
a regular mechanic.

> How many miles have you put on an EV?

Nearly 4,000 in 2.5 years.  I was driving it daily, but my commute is  
too long right now.

>
> Thanks in advance for any information you can share.
>
> Emily Komp
> kompfamily at hotmail.com
>
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Rob

______________
Rob Hirschfeld
rob at zehicle.com



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