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Hybrid Electric Car Kits
They are usually converted into plug in electric vehicles, meaning they can be charged using an electric source such as a power plug. The two engines work together in order to cut fuel consumption, which can ultimately save you money. The electric engine will usually work when you are going slow or have to start and stop, while the gasoline engine will power the car during acceleration and when driving at high speeds.
Hybrid electric car kits can cut your gas bills dramatically; in some cases, it can increase fuel efficiency by around 40 to 50 percent. They are also very quiet giving you a peaceful drive compared to combustion-based engines that can make a lot of noise. By converting your car, you will also reduce greenhouse gases, making the environment cleaner and greener. In the US, you can also get generous tax credits if you decide to convert your vehicle. These credits will depend on the type of conversion and the state you live in.
Why Choose Hybrid Electric Car Kits
A new hybrid car can cost a lot of money; in fact, they cost more then standard combustion engine vehicles. Buying a new car is not always an option for many people, especially for those on a tight budget. Electric hybrid car kits can provide them with a similar service as a new hybrid car, but at a much lower price.
Hybrid cars on the market are also not the most stylish, and some may lack the luxurious features you may want. For those who want the creature comforts provided by their existing car, a conversion is a great option.
People often believe those cars that have been converted to a hybrid are less efficient and often have mechanical problems. This is not true; hybrid electric cars are very efficient, and can be driven for long hauls at speeds comparable to those of combustion engine cars.
Things To Consider When Converting A Car Using Hybrid Electric Car Kits
If you decide to convert your car into an electric hybrid car, you need to consider many things. The most important is selecting the right car for the job. Choosing a car that has previously been converted by someone else can save you a lot of hassles, especially if you decide to do it yourself and get stuck during the conversion process. For those who want a decent drive, a sedan is the best option. If, however, you want all-out performance, you can use an SUV or a small pickup, which will be able to accommodate a large amount of batteries. www.EValbum.com has a compilation of cars that have undergone a conversion and lists some of the possible problems that could arise. You can also get the conversion done by a professional; this will be more expensive, but it will give you peace of mind.
The battery you choose is paramount to the performance of the vehicle you want to convert. Lead acid flooded batteries are the most common types of batteries used; this is because of their ability to deliver high power surges and their low cost. Absorption Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are another alternative; they are sealed and are virtually maintenance free. However, they are more expensive than lead acid flooded batteries, but they also produce greater power. Nickel-metal hydride and lithium-ion batteries are the most expensive alternative; they are, however, a lot lighter and last a lot longer than any other type of batteries.
It is also important to calculate the costs involved in converting a car and the potential savings it will generate. A hybrid electric car kit can cost in the thousands, however, there is virtually no maintenance if everything is done properly the first time. The costs of running the car are also low, but you will need to change batteries every three to five years, and this can cost around $2000 to $4000 depending on the number of batteries. The weight of the batteries will also have to be considered. The weight needs to be spread properly in the front and the back of the vehicle to give it good stability and balance while driving. It will be very difficult to steer if there is too much weight at the rear of the car.
Hybrid Electric Car Kit Manufacturers
Poulsen hybrid-electric conversion kit is a popular kit on the market, and it works on any car that has wheels which are 15” or larger. This makes it attractive to almost any small car or sedan. They cost around $4,550 USD to be installed with lead acid batteries; this price increases significantly to around $8,500 if you want them installed with lithium-ion batteries. The system works on a simple principle; most cars need around 10-15 horsepower to travel at 60 mph on a steady road. Electric engines are perfect for this type of situations, and so instead of using the combustion engine, the new hybrid electric kit will take over the running of the vehicle when it is traveling at slow speeds. This will dramatically improve the fuel efficiency of the car; in some instances, it can almost double. When the vehicle needs more power, like when starting or going at high speeds, the gasoline-powered engine takes over giving it performance similar to any other car. Information about this system can be found at http://www.poulsenhybrid.com/.
VS Composites’ manufactures an Electrocharger™, which can be used to convert any car; it costs around $4,000, and improves fuel efficiency by almost 60 percent. It works by replacing the vehicle’s alternator with an electric generator. Sigma Automotive also produces a Plug-inElectric HybridVehicle ConversionKit which comes with a72 volt, 20 kW SR motor drive and a 6.25 kWh battery pack. The Electrocharger™ gets its energy when the vehicle brakes or is at cruising speed. More information about this conversion kit can be found at http://www.sigmaautomotive.com/electrocharger/electrocharger.php
It is important to know the facts before a conversion; resources about hybrid electric conversions can be found at http://www.ecobusinesslinks.com/hybrid_conversion.htm
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