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Ask HN: E-crate motors, any interesting projects?

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Ask HN: E-crate motors, any interesting projects?

#1

Post by uguuo_o »

Two years after Ford unveiled their e-crate motors [0] and it being available for the public[1], are there any interesting ev conversions? Any plans to use these motors in the future? To me, it seems that this approach to converting ICE to EVs should be quite popular with privacy-minded individuals. Yes, the cost may be a bit prohibitive at this time but technology evolves and at some point it may be more tractable. I just can't seem to get past all of the connectivity in current EVs, I by far rather tackle one of these conversions.

[0] https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=29092212 [1] https://www.fordracingbyspeedshopdirect.com/mobile/product.aspx?ProductCode=m%2D9000%2Dmache&404;http://www.fordracingbyspeedshopdirect.com:80/ELUMINATOR_MACH_E_ELECTRIC_MOTOR_p/M-9000-MACHE.htm?gclid=Cj0KCQjww4OMBhCUARIsAILndv6efe4XCxsqTxdnOId70MWG8ZiW9NChbKXqA-vgPZ7hVSxkifvsyPYaApb5EALw_wcB

Re: Ask HN: E-crate motors, any interesting projects?

#3

Post by uguuo_o »

Hatrix wrote: post #2

You can get the motor but, have to figure out everything else on your own. There other expensive parts. Add the cost of batteries and you might as well buy a new EV.

Yes, the cost is on the high side at the moment. It is impractical, but it may be the only choice we ever have if we do not want an internet connected vehicle.

Re: Ask HN: E-crate motors, any interesting projects?

#4

Post by dmbche »

There are a couple shops that are doing EV conversions already, for not that much compared to a new EV. The issue is that since the vehicle isn't designed for batteries and an electric motor, there is a lot of wasted space and the safety of the batteries is kind of a grey area.

It's also prohibitevly expensive to get enough batteries for distance, and the controlers are awfully finicky and you kind of have to fight proprietary software if I remember correctly.

I just think we aren't there yet - but maybe I'm wrong!

Re: Ask HN: E-crate motors, any interesting projects?

#5

Post by Hatrix »

uguuo_o wrote: post #3
Hatrix wrote: post #2

You can get the motor but, have to figure out everything else on your own. There other expensive parts. Add the cost of batteries and you might as well buy a new EV.

Yes, the cost is on the high side at the moment. It is impractical, but it may be the only choice we ever have if we do not want an internet connected vehicle.

Internet or some type of electronic identification device will probably be required in the future for insurance, law enforcement or tax collection purposes. It will be embedded in the license plate.

Re: Ask HN: E-crate motors, any interesting projects?

#7

Post by uguuo_o »

Hatrix wrote: post #5
uguuo_o wrote: post #3

Earlier quoted context omitted.

Yes, the cost is on the high side at the moment. It is impractical, but it may be the only choice we ever have if we do not want an internet connected vehicle.

Internet or some type of electronic identification device will probably be required in the future for insurance, law enforcement or tax collection purposes. It will be embedded in the license plate.

I will vote against this in any way I can for as long as I live.

Re: Ask HN: E-crate motors, any interesting projects?

#8

Post by GianFabien »

I have come across several businesses that do conversions. Batteries are by far the biggest issue. ICE cars can't easily accommodate sufficient batteries. All the conversions I have looked at connect the electric motor to the gearbox with rear wheel drive cars. The range is only 200-300 mile at best. Getting cars roadworthy and certified after a conversion is a substantial exercise.

Unless you are converting a rust free, mechanically sound classic car, the typical conversion cost is just too much to be a realistic option.

Re: Ask HN: E-crate motors, any interesting projects?

#9

Post by DANmode »

uguuo_o wrote: post #7
Hatrix wrote: post #5

Earlier quoted context omitted.

Internet or some type of electronic identification device will probably be required in the future for insurance, law enforcement or tax collection purposes. It will be embedded in the license plate.

I will vote against this in any way I can for as long as I live.

Can you get more than 5 other people to do the same? (I'm hoping so!)
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