Conversion Question: AC Motor Size

by Alex
(Puerto Rico)

I'm new to this EV/hybrid thing and would like to ask a few questions before I start buying the wrong stuff.

1) How do I know which AC motor to use depending on the vehicle weight?

2) Is it possible to make a "hybrid vehicle" by using a AC motor and a small gas generator to provide the electricity needed?

Hola, Alex!
For AC motors, first determine your donor car's factory curb weight (not gross vehicle weight).
If it's between 2000 and 2400 pounds, choose the Solectria AC24 motor.
If it's between 2400 and 3500 pounds, choose the Solectria AC55 motor.

Wasn't that easy?

You can read all the technical data you want about these two motors at Electro Automotive's data page.

The hybrid question?
Yes, it can be done, and it has, many times. However, if you intend to use your generator a lot, rather than plugging in most of the time and using the generator only as an emergency range extender, then a small gasoline or diesel car engine would be better.
Why?
Because generators don't have the same pollution control that car engines have evolved, since they're not required to have it...and so consequently, they're terrible polluters, comparatively.

Regards,
Lynne