Protocom

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Creator:
Opticron
Status:
Research
Born On:
22:18, 6 July 2008 (CDT)
Last Updated:
{{{Last Updated}}}

Overview

Protocom is targeted as a prototype commuter vehicle. It is fully electric, but can have a diesel generator with a 5 or so gallon tank for longer hauls. The basic idea is that it has solar cells that will charge while you're at work all day. It is not meant for long trips. The "com" in the name is for commuter, short bursts of use daily. This will probably resemble a go-kart initially.

Electrical

The entire vehicle can be run from some number of lead acid batteries. Each wheel will have a motor in the hub for maximal efficiency. The vehicle will have an array of solar panels to charge the batteries during the day time. It may also have a detachable diesel generator tuned to run in a very narrow, but efficient power band for charging.

Mechanical

There is no drive train, but it has been suggested that the wheels all be swivelable for easy parallel parking (definitely not in the first version).

Legalese

What do we need to make this street legal?

  • Rear view mirror(s)
  • Signal lights (brake, turn)
  • Head lights