OwnerGreg Tuntland
LocationClinton, Iowa US map
Email email image
Vehicle1981 Ford Escort
Jet Electra
MotorPrestolite Electric 9 inch Series Wound DC
Single direction motor, uses transmission for reverse...
DrivetrainElectric 20 hp 9" Prestolite
ControllerDC Power Systems 600 amp
Batteries10 Interstate SRM29, deep cycle marine, 12.00 Volt, Lead-Acid, Flooded
Kind of like a Model "T", 1981 Technology.
All FLA batteries are subject to the Peukert Thermal Effect.
Modified Peukert's Equation, T = C(C/R)n-1/In or as T=R(C/R)n/In.
Its Sad, we can't get the Proven Technology, like 300 mi MiMH from 1986.
I'm looking to switch to Lithium Iron batteries, Safer and better Range...
I plan to change all lights to LED's to reduce power drain, but keep the drive train more original, for historical reasons.
System Voltage120 Volts
Charger Daystarter, 1981 vintage
It used to put out 150 vdc
I suspect the power diodes...
Heatergas heater has been removed.
Instrumentationstill working: volt meter,instrument ampmeter. Oh, speedometer, and odometer.
on the fritz; power ampmeter, and instrument voltage meter.
Top Speed39 MPH (62 KPH)
mostly 20 mph
I've been promised some newer battery technology, carbon nanotube,but when?
Accelerationnothing special here...
Range15 Miles (24 Kilometers)
this was when it was 20 degrees F.
EV Miles
Start:6,000 Miles (9,654 Kilometers)
Current:6,500 Miles (10,458 Kilometers)
Total:500 Miles (804 Kilometers)
Seating Capacity2 adults
batteries take up the rear seating.
If I had Lithiums, they could go under the floor and the rear seat could go back in..that would be nice!
Curb Weight3,000 Pounds (1,363 Kilograms)
batteries weigh 550 lbs...
Tiresoriginal 13".
My plan is to get some Prius tires for better rolling resistance.
Additional Featuresoriginal Radio, AM/FM Snazey
I've had it for about 6 months. It's difficult being an Early Adapter.

code by jerry