Island Roadrunner in 4th of July Parade Rear Door Wind Fairing DetailLocal Coffee Shop Patrons Trying Out IslModified Battery Pack - SLA-AGM with eleUltralight Aircraft Seat and HarnessModified Bicycle Trailer2-12VDC LED Headlights - wired for 24VDCCustom 24VDC Windshield WiperWindup Clock Driven Solar Tracker and Pa
OwnerFred Garvey
LocationAlameda, California US map
Web/EmailWebPage email image
Vehicle2004 HCF Modified HCF-305 Mobility Scooter
Weighing in at 220#, with a cruising speed of 14mph and a maximum operating radius of 13.5 miles, the "Island Roadrunner" is the lightest, busiest electric vehicle in Alameda, California.
Motor SanDar (2004-11-30) Permanent Magnet DC
Output: 600 Watts Max.
Weight: about 7 pounds.
Voltage: Operating Range: 15~32Volts DC
Nominal: 24Volts constant
No Load RPM: 3,700rpm
Drivetrain24VDC 600 watt brushed motor (.8hp) with cogged Optibelt-Omega belt drive to 5th power wheel.
Controller CE24V305
Batteries4 Power Sonic PSH-12180NB-FR, 12.00 Volt, Lead-Acid, AGM
Brand new SLA-AGM batteries were broken open (voiding the warranty) and flooded with standard battery electrolyte solution, to successfully survive repeated fast discharge cycles.

Two PowerCheq electronic battery string equalizers are installed in the battery pack. One PowerCheq module interconnects the two 12V batteries connected in each 24VDC series string, creating a bi-directional energy transfer path between the batteries. The module intelligently equalizes batteries during charge, discharge, and idle periods, keeping them properly maintained at the same state of charge -critically important to battery life and range of the vehicle battery pack.
System Voltage24 Volts
Charger CTE-4C24040
CTE Corporation
Heaternone
DC/DC Converter CE24V305 electronic controller
The onboard CE24V305 electronic controller provides an isolated 24vdc power source for accessories.
Instrumentation- Digital speedometer/odometer
- LED battery pack indicator
- Digital motor temperature indicator
Top Speed15 MPH (24 KPH)
15mph
14mph with trailer
Acceleration0 to 15mph in 6 seconds (without the trailer).
Range27 Miles (43 Kilometers)
27 miles maximum range (= 13.5 miles radius) in the open country (no stop-and-go) @ 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
19 miles maximum range (=9.5 miles radius) in stop-and-go neighborhood traffic. Both ranges are for normal paved surfaces.
Watt Hours/Mile65 Wh/Mile
Open road: 45 Wh/Mile
Stop-and-go traffic: 65 Wh/Mile
@ full cruising speed (14 mph).
(Based on Kill-A-Watt meter reading during charge cycle.)
EV Miles
Current:2,100 Miles (3,378 Kilometers)
Seating Capacityone
Curb Weight220 Pounds (99 Kilograms)
Includes battery pack (52 pounds).
Tires2-1/4" x 12-1/2"
Conversion Timeone year
Conversion Cost$ 2,500.00
Additional FeaturesLight weight bicycle trailer was modified into a flatbed, with a 60# payload capacity.

Vehicle modified with an ultralight aircraft seat and harness for comfort, stability, and protection.

This vehicle is classified as a "Light Electric Vehicle": A new breed of efficient, lean-and-mean machines that weigh little more than the passenger(s). The issue with most electric vehicles these days is that they often weigh in at 2,000 pounds or more. And such a vehicle has the daunting obstacle of simply transporting itself, which is, at best, a losing battle.
Everywhere I drive this odd duck people approach me, wanting to buy one. I politely tell them that I would starve if I made these things for a living.

This project is not unlike my radio control model aircraft: It's a true labor of love -that initially required a considerable amount of research and tinkering to keep everything running smoothly. But the casual bystander only sees a cute, reliable vehicle that quickly and effortlessly runs errands all over town. And it would be a stretch to assume that this vehicle is ready for the mass market.

Like many members in my local Electric Auto Association, I see my electric vehicle as a toy and a joy, and not yet a viable substitute for an internal combustion engine vehicle. But we try.

code by jerry