GM Volt / Vauxhall Ampera and series hyrbrid cars

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the efficiency and practicality of series hybrid vehicles, specifically the GM Volt and Vauxhall Ampera. Participants explore the mechanics of using an internal combustion engine (ICE) as a generator to charge a battery that powers an electric motor, as well as the feasibility of retrofitting existing vehicles with similar systems. The conversation includes comparisons to conventional vehicles and considerations of cost and efficiency.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question why series hybrids like the Volt and Ampera are not more common, suggesting potential conspiracy or expense as factors.
  • There is a request for numerical evidence to support claims about the efficiency of using an ICE as a generator compared to traditional drivetrains.
  • Participants discuss the possibility of retrofitting existing cars with a series hybrid system, though specifics on feasibility are not provided.
  • One participant notes that the ICE can operate at its most efficient speed when used as a generator, rather than varying speeds to control vehicle speed.
  • Another participant points out that while series hybrids can start on electric power, they may be less efficient than conventional vehicles at highway speeds, citing specific mileage comparisons between the Volt and Cruze Eco.
  • Regenerative braking is mentioned as a significant advantage for hybrids in urban settings, regardless of the hybrid type.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the efficiency of series hybrids compared to conventional vehicles, particularly at highway speeds. There is no consensus on the overall effectiveness or practicality of retrofitting existing vehicles with series hybrid systems.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference historical interest in electric vehicle conversions and the cost implications of such projects, indicating a potential barrier to wider adoption of series hybrids.

hakko
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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Volt

In this series hybrid, engine and generator charge the battery and battery powers the motor, and can be made with components already available. The Ampera is claimed to do 175mpg (vs 40mpg on my current car). So I wonder why there aren't more cars like this already? Conspiracy?

Is it really more efficient to use the engine as a generator to power a battery which powers a motor? Can someone show some numbers on this?

If it is efficient, can this system be easily retrofitted on cars? Not like the Ampera/Volt where it can run from battery alone for 30+ miles, but enough battery to get the car moving and get the starter motor of the engine/generator going?
 
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hakko said:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Volt

... So I wonder why there aren't more cars like this already? Conspiracy?
How about expense? I recently saw a Chevy S-10 pickup which had been converted to electric. Owner said it cost over $8k to do the conversion. Electrics are expensive.

Is it really more efficient to use the engine as a generator to power a battery which powers a motor? Can someone show some numbers on this?

If it is efficient, can this system be easily retrofitted on cars? Not like the Ampera/Volt where it can run from battery alone for 30+ miles, but enough battery to get the car moving and get the starter motor of the engine/generator going?

Where you gain is that the ICE can be set to run at it's most efficient speed, rather then constantly changing speed as when being used to control the speed of the car.
 
If it is efficient, can this system be easily retrofitted on cars?

It was popular back in 70's. People liked the Opels.

"Mother Earth News" magazine had many articles back then, probably they could be found online.
Here's a fellow who sells electric motors for EV hobyists.
http://www.ddmotorsystems.com/ElectricVehicles.php
 
The advantage of a series hybrid is that you can plug it in and go the first few miles on electric only, after that they are less efficient then a conventional drivetrain on the highway. Compare a Chevy Volt with a Cruze Eco. On gas only the Volt gets 37 mpg on the highway but the Cruze gets 42.

Regenerative braking will give any hybrid a decided advantage in town, weather it be a series hybrid, parallel hybrid, or a Two-mode.
 

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