EVcast #236: Tailpipes and Plugs

I would like to know how a Honda Insight was converted to a PHEV?? Is it simply adding more batteries? Andy Frank

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If your ICE range extender uses a Bio-fuel (Bio-diesel, ethanol, methane) it is every bit as carbon neutral as a pure EV maybe more so depending on your electrical generation method - I personally favor Hydraulic hybrids- the hydrulic system could be charged with either a  bio-fuel ICE or an bio-fuel ICE and a electric motor. In high population density areas you could have inductive charging 7-8 car lengths in front of the traffic lights allowing the electric motor to charge the hydraulic system, a vehicle like this would be highly efficient, carbon neutral and have reduced localized pollution in areas of high population and where there is gridlock.

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Nikki,

Loved your podcast. They're up to their usual standard with regard to engaging dialogue. There are three things I wanted to bring up though.

First is range anxiety. I think this is mostly an issue that can be resolved through education. If people size their car's electrical range properly and don't have unrealistic expectations like driving a Ford F-150, 300 miles at 65 mph on a charge then we can work with that. If you're looking to commute 40 to 50 miles round trip this can be done. For most people this is the case. The rest will have to rely on the regular gas/petrol powered cars. I found an article from a website that I thought addresses this in a satirical way here: http://www.electric-cars-are-for-girls.com/chevy-volt.html

Second, I'd like to know more about how the Honda Insight was converted into a plug-in hybrid. The Honda Insight was a weak electric hybrid vehicle. The Honda Insight v 1.0 was, essentially, a car with a small, 1.0 liter 3 cylander ICE engine and an electric power assist motor. So I don't understand how adding batteries, unless they were lithium ion batteries properly sized for weight and range, would do to make the car drive in a electric range only mode the way it is done with the Prius.

Third, I saw the Star Trek movie last weekend and I must have missed it but I was looking forward to seeing the Aptera in the movie. I wonder if anyone else has as well. I guess I'll have to wait 'till it comes out on video to see it.

Rick, from the oil capitol of the world, Houston, TX.

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Can the 2010 Prius be converted to plug-in?

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This link may be more appropriate for last Saturday's show, but from Autobloggreen's site, a short bit and link for a site that wants to offer online courses on EV Conversions- could be interesting, depending on how they set it up:  http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/05/18/want-to-take-an-electric-vehicle-conversion-class-online/

And Darn!! We went to see the new Star Trek movie on Saturday, and I forgot to look for the Aptera!  Guess I will just have to go watch it again;-)

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Greetings everyone. Nikki, I enjoy the show very much, but I had problems with the dynamic range of the guests. Some were too loud, and some (including yourself) were too quiet. If other have said the same, then crank up your volume! If I'm the only one experiencing this, then I'll just have to live with it. And again, thanks for the great info- viva l'ectric.

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My friend said having Honda Insight is really worth it because the ride performance is good and very eco friendly. He really loves his Honda Insight and he makes a honda wallpaper for his friends.

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In response to the question about a 2010 Prius being able to be converted to PHEV. I talked with Hymotion directly as the dealer I used to have my 2005 Prius converted bought a 2010 Prius from that dealer (Westboro Toyota- outside Boston MA) about a month ago to figure out how to get their L5 PHEV module to work. Hopefully Toyota didn't modify the spare tire well so unit fits without being reengineered.

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