What is the typical weight difference between gas and electric car engines?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the weight differences between gas and electric car engines, particularly in the context of converting a gas engine car to an electric engine car. Participants explore the implications of weight on vehicle performance and the components involved in such a conversion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about whether converting to an electric engine will increase or decrease the overall weight of the vehicle, noting the potential weight of batteries as a significant factor.
  • Another participant provides information on the energy density of lead-acid batteries compared to gasoline, suggesting that this could inform the weight considerations.
  • A different participant mentions that Li-Poly batteries are lighter than lead-acid batteries but raises concerns about their safety, indicating a trade-off in battery choice.
  • It is suggested that even with lighter batteries, the total weight of an electric car may still exceed that of a gas-powered car due to the number of batteries required for comparable range.
  • One participant estimates a weight reduction of a hundred to two hundred pounds for the motor and drivetrain, but notes that the batteries could add a significant weight increase of one to two thousand pounds.
  • A recommendation is made to research existing projects to gain insights into weight considerations in electric vehicle conversions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether converting to electric will result in a net weight increase or decrease, as multiple viewpoints and estimates are presented regarding the weight of components involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention various types of batteries and their respective weight implications, but there is no resolution on the overall weight impact of the conversion. The discussion also highlights the need for further research into specific vehicle projects.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in electric vehicle conversions, automotive engineering, or those considering the implications of weight in vehicle performance may find this discussion relevant.

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Hello everyone. Currently my brother and I are considering converting a gas engine car into an electric engine car. I'm still not exactly sure how well the vehicle we have chosen for this project will work. The main issue I'm worried about is weight. So, I was wondering if, in general, a conversation from gas to electric would increase the weight or decrease it. At first I was assuming that an electric engine would weigh less then the gas engine and all the components needed to run a gas vehicle, but then I realized the batteries will probably add a large amount of weight. So, before I go into more specific research of the measurements I would like to have a general idea of whether the weight is going to be an issue or not. Thank you for time.
 
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A typical lead acid battery has a useful energy density of around 15Wh/kg. Gasoline is something like 45MJ/kg.

That should get you started.
 
Li-Poly batteries will weigh a lot less than lead-acid batteries, but they have a nasty habit of exploding if overcharged. Because of li-poly batteries and more efficient brushless motors, radio control aircraft are making the switch to electric based power.
 
Even with the Li-Poly batteries I would suggest that if you want comparable amounts of miles to your gas powered car then your car is going to weight a fair bit more than a normal gas powered car just because of the sheer number of batteries.
 
a hundred or two lbs less for the motor/drive train
and a thousand or two more for the batterys

El-trick cars are HEAVY

google up some projects others have done
 

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