Transmission required in a conversion?

by andrew
(San Jose CA)

Ian Clifford's Henney Kilowatt "Mabel"

Why do I need a transmission?

I was thinking of starting with a classic little front engine/rear drive car. I thought maybe I could put the electric motor where the transmission currently lives? Then the "engine bay" could all be devoted to batteries and controller stuff.

Hi, Andrew!

The FAQ at EVParts.com says that, while you CAN eliminate the transmission, there are really good reasons not to.

"To prevent overloading the motor and controller at lower RPM's, it is helpful to use a lower gear to get the motor RPM's up to improve efficiency, torque and motor cooling. At higher speeds it is desirable to use a higher gear to keep the motor from over-revving."

Plus, he says, it's there already, it's usually in pretty good shape, and it would be expensive and complicated to replace this part of the EV driveline.

I'd keep the transmission; )

Regards,
Lynne

Check out the Henney Kilowatt in the picture at austinev.org's EV photo album!