08-27-2008, 10:51 PM | #1 |
Gone Wild
Join Date: Dec 2006
Posts: 679
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Electric Trucks
I would like to hear some ideas on what trucks would make good conversions. I have a while before I am settled here in Texas but I would like to get some idea of what truck to start looking for. Better to look now before I am ready to assemble.
I was thinking a Chevy S-10, one of the newer more aerodynamic ones plus I think there is a lot of aftermarket for these little trucks. If one was lowered with ground effects it should have a lower resistance to the wind. Of course the correct setup is key and not just a slammed truck. Let the discussions begin! |
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08-28-2008, 05:17 AM | #2 |
Happy Carting
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: Southern California
Posts: 73,358
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Re: Electric Trucks
I would think weight would also factor into your decision. My guess is that the Asian trucks are lighter? What about those Mini trucks? Not street legal in Ca. but heck you can do anything in TX?
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08-28-2008, 01:24 PM | #3 |
Gone Wild
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Tucson, AZ
Posts: 979
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Re: Electric Trucks
I was looking at an electric S-10 on eBay not too long ago. I guess they were a fairly common conversion for one of the companies, so I think that would probably be a good choice, since it's already been done, and parts and information should be readily available for it.
I personally like the 86.5 and up Nissan Hardbody pickups, and would love to see an electric one running around. Do that, live my dream for me! lol I assume scottyb is talking about those little daihatsu trucks, that are more like a longbed golf cart but with a full cab and air conditioning.. I almost bought one of those locally at a military surplus auction, with the same intent. We can register almost anything here in AZ as long as it has the proper features and passes inspection. Headlight, tail/brake light, license plate light, mirror, horn, that's about it... |
08-28-2008, 01:40 PM | #4 |
Gone Wild
Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: Slums of Lake Erie
Posts: 3,721
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Re: Electric Trucks
Those little trucks can't be made street legal in Ohio because of safty equipment, (crash). Thinking a ToyoTa. Know where there is an old Vega EV with a bad controler.
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08-28-2008, 01:47 PM | #5 |
Gone Wild
Join Date: Dec 2006
Posts: 679
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Re: Electric Trucks
I encourage folks to post pictures of their truck of choice and if anyone is into graphics please post what you drew! I do hope if a concept vehicle is drawn and posted the artist does not mind if we use some of their features that we like...
I am a little hesitant of the Asian truck; durability and speed might be just two factors. I want the truck to go fast as well as cruise slow; the S-10, Ford Ranger, Nissan and other small trucks already have speed capable suspensions. I did consider one of these Asian trucks at one time and it did not make sense for dollars per performance. Don't take this negative Scottyb, I do appreciate the idea and it just might be what others are looking for. Keep the ideas coming! For me no kit is needed, in fact I won't be using anybody's kit, I have my own design all ready to go. If what I choose is wrong I am just going to have to find out on my own the hard way. |
08-28-2008, 03:37 PM | #6 |
Gone Wild
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Tucson, AZ
Posts: 979
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Re: Electric Trucks
Nate, I figured you were building something from scratch, but my comments were just to point out that the S-10 is a popular truck for electric conversion, has been done, and works well, so it is probably a good choice based on that. If you're like me though, you'd want to do something that not everyone has done, and I have a feeling that you ARE like that.
What about a small SUV like the isuzu rodeo/honda passport instead of a pickup? You could lower the floor, build the box underneath, still end up with 4door 4 seats... Used ones can be had pretty cheap too. Just a thought.... |
08-28-2008, 06:11 PM | #7 |
The Fabricator
Join Date: Dec 2006
Posts: 2,016
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Re: Electric Trucks
Nate I'm sure what ever you decide to do will turn out awesome!! I think a small truck is ideal for conversions or a small suv as SP-Electronics mentioned. How long of a range are you looking for? Batteries? If you're not on a budget try these out for me and let us know how well they perform. Comparing the costs and benefits the LiFePO4 seem the way to go versus lead acid. What are your ideas on these batteries?
Check out how much they weigh...oh that would make installing them such a breeze. http://www.beepscom.com/product_p/ba-lb-100-3.2.htm Here's a sweet Ford Ranger EV that has some very respectable stats! http://www.evalbum.com/1724 |
08-28-2008, 06:15 PM | #8 |
Gone Wild
Join Date: Sep 2007
Location: maine
Posts: 3,352
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Re: Electric Trucks
i like the old luv nate they were cool and lite wish i could find one in good shape for a big block chevy project
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08-28-2008, 06:48 PM | #9 |
Gone Wild
Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: Slums of Lake Erie
Posts: 3,721
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Re: Electric Trucks
Chevy Luv=Izuzu Pup
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08-28-2008, 07:34 PM | #10 |
The Fabricator
Join Date: Dec 2006
Posts: 2,016
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Re: Electric Trucks
Didn't Isuzu make a truck that looks exactly like the Chevy S10?
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