SpudFiles

Unfortunately, my summer project doesn't include another cannon. I wan't to make something that is, well, usable. (Don't yell at me for that comment. I'm going to college this fall and I can't use cannons there...) I'm thinking about an electic road legal vehicle. I was thinking on the order of an electric go-cart. Yes, I am springboarding from other members ideas here.

Not entirely potato cannon based, you may be asking yourself, why is this posted here? Well for one I don't know of any die-hard go cart forums. Even if I did I wouldn't want to sign up. Two, all the members here say intelligent and benificial things. Three, I have a feeling some of you may know something other than throwing potatoes.

Anyway, first thing is first. I need to know where I can get the cheapest supplies. i.e. electric motors, controllers, batteries, etc. This won't be a cheap project. I don't have a car so it is of higher importance than my airsoft minigun. I'm estimating around 2 grand for everything. The only site I know of right now is here. http://www.electricscooterparts.com/ I don't really want to exceed 3000 Watts of power because of the prices and because I don't need that much power. So if you know of any sites that sell for low prices or know of any pointers to making a vehicle from scratch, I'd love to hear it. Remember, it needs to be able to be registered as a street legal vehicle and I am going for range not performance.

For 2K you can get a nice gas powered moped/schooter thats really easy on gas. Maby a knock off Segway would be even better.

Ya but where's the fun that. I'd rather make something. I'm sick of gasoline. It simply makes the world suck. I don't even use gas in my potato gun anymore, I've moved on to the alcohol based sprays.

Well, there's always ebay...

But really, I can't be of much help here. You should check scrap yards for electric motors. Also, if you have any close friends that work in large factories (especially those with maintenance jobs), talk to them about motors and other stuff.

If you have any cash left over, maybe you can get a couple solar cells for the roof. Electricity produces around the same level of pollution as gas unless you're getting it from a nuclear plant.

That is true. Solar cells are for later though. Kinda pricey at $10 per square inch. I was planning to use dynamic brakes. Like a diesel locomotive. Instead of putting the power into resistors on the roof the power goes back into the batteries. Uhh, I can always use the "school project" card. I've done plenty before. But this one would be a stretch. I've gotten off on a couple hundred of dollars not thousands. Uh how about frame constuction? Any tips there? I was thinking of using an old aluminum go cart frame. It's kinda shotty though. But it only weighs around 80 lbs. My calculations include a total weight of 800 lbs so it would give me plenty of extra weight to play around with.

Make sure the aluminum frame can actually take the stresses involved with all the extra weight you're putting on it.

I think you can get solar cells a lot cheaper than $10/ an inch. I almost bought a 40 watt cell a while back for around $30 (ebay:)

This sounds like a cool project.

Don't really have anything to add.

You can stop reading now.

one thing to look into, depending on the range you are looking for, is the electric skateboard, such as http://www.alteredelectricskateboards.c ... le_600.htm, though you could make your own. Suposedly it has an 8 mile range, at 20mph

I must say, that if your planning on building a worth-while electrical vehicle for less than 2 grand, your setting yourself up for failure. But hey, good-luck and prove me wrong 8)

Hmm. I was planning exactly this this summer. I posted a similar thread, i do not believe i will pursue it though. 3000w will be kinda underpowered for 800lb, thats only gonna yeild 3.5-4 hp. I doubt it would end up 800lb. An aluminum frame would be optimal. I was planning on using 1/2" iron pipe nipples... what are you planning on using for the batteries? and what motor. If you are just gonna get a small (5hp?) motor, i would not even bother with a controller. Id just have the throttle at full power when pressed. Make the torque just under what the wheels will slip at. This might save you a good 500 bucks. Definately gear it more towards torque and less torwards speed if you are anticipating a kart this heavy. Electric- definately. Even though you are may be just transfering the carbon output, it is far better than the pollution from 2 strokes. and it is cool innovation away from combustion engines, regardless of practicality. Keep us posted. I ran across a gokart forum with an electric section, ill see if i can find it.

brogdenlaxmiddie wrote:I must say, that if your planning on building a worth-while electrical vehicle for less than 2 grand, your setting yourself up for failure. But hey, good-luck and prove me wrong 8)

wrong,

Many people have built electric vehicles for under 1k. So 2k should not be difficult.

The thing is most people have problems with is pushing high rpm motors with decent torque.

Just a suggestion,

http://www.hobbycity.com/hobbycity/stor ... eq:_70-55)

Coupled with a reduction (bicycle running gear?) might get you there?

Have a look around their site for batteries (Li-po if you have the $) and a controller too. (you also need a servo tester to run the controller)

Why not a nice velomobile.
I want to make one, but I have no money. and nothing to make the shell with, welding equipment etc etc
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Velomobile
$2000 thats alot, you could make something worth while, very easily (salvage)

For power, you may want to look into rechargeable A123 cells. Like the ones found in some Dewalt batteries. A lot of people use them to power ther R/C cars (I will be soon). They are only 2300mAh but if you run them in a series, it will give you 4300mAh which means longer run times. They are light and more powerful, and stronger than Lipo batteries too. In the event that you would possibly get in an accident, these should be fine, where Lipos may explode. Not only are they strong, powerful and light, they also take about 15 minutes to charge with no ill effects. You will need a R/C battery charger that will run you about $160 but its totally worth it.

As for motors, you may want to look into electric motors that are used in hybrids. A (and this may seem rediculous) Pryus motor would be your best bet. They are actually pretty powerful little motors. Or you could try to find a motor that is used in hybrid SUVs. A Pryus motor would probably cheaper and would still get you up to speed.

Im sorry, but when did the power of five raging stallions ever appear small?

Tip: Dont build a four wheeled vehicle, it may be saer, but if its that light and dainty, then that is nearlyu void.
Build a bike instead, less regulations apply on how you build it, less weight, etc.

I understand your reasons for building a buggy.

As for the budget, 2k is plenty, I mean, some chinese guy built a personal helicopter for 3k.

Use roll bars, you will thank me later.