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<channel>
	<title>DIY Electric Car Conversion Blog</title>
	<atom:link href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog</link>
	<description>Electric Vehicle (EV) conversion guides review and information from the web</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Fri, 03 Feb 2012 01:02:27 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en</language>
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		<title>Making Electric Cars Affordable With Technological Advancement</title>
		<link>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/ev-news/making-electric-cars-affordable/</link>
		<comments>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/ev-news/making-electric-cars-affordable/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Feb 2012 01:02:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[EV News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mass market]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pure electric car]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[technological advancement]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/?p=2359</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Even though pure electric cars have been around for many years, there are only few designs which have met the expectation of the people. Many models which had prototypes designs were sent to market after making some adjustments and alterations. In earlier times when gasoline was cheap, nobody thought of improving the battery pack used [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Pure Electric Car" src="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Volt-EV-e1325303625904.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="224" /></p>
<p>Even though pure electric cars have been around for many years, there are only few designs which have met the expectation of the people. Many models which had prototypes designs were sent to market after making some adjustments and alterations.</p>
<p>In earlier times when gasoline was cheap, nobody thought of improving the <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/toyota-electric/toyota-prius-battery-guide/">battery pack</a> used on electric vehicles as they were not good at all and that is the reason why such technology never became popular. Recent technology advancement has changed the entire scene and now more efficient and lightweight batteries are available in the market.</p>
<p>The most common problem seen with older batteries was it used to power the vehicle with DC power source which had a limited technology and the batteries were too heavy and were quite inefficient. When bigger and more powerful <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/electric-motor/cheap-electric-motor-for-electric-car-use-forklift-motor/">electric motor</a> was used as the power plant of EVs, the effective driving range was limited because the batteries do not have sufficient charge to supply to the motor.</p>
<p>What’s needed was to create a system which works and makes the car power source lighter and could hold more electric charge. There was great reduction in the demand for lighter batteries after researchers created new designs for the electric car power system.</p>
<p>The glaring example is usage of hybrid technology which is based upon a small scale generator that runs on gasoline and produces the electric power required to charge the battery pack which in turn used to run the electric motor. This is really an efficient system because the generator continuously keeps on charging the small group of batteries that is used to power the vehicle.</p>
<p>Other designs which have been tried are using Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels to charge the batteries with a hope enough power can be generated to run the vehicle. This technology worked very well especially during sunny days but after sunset and change in the weather, the technology proved to be very inefficient. Alas, more research and development is needed to make solar hybrid electric car practical.</p>
<p>Research and experiment do help and such experimentation has really boosted the effective driving mileage of pure electric cars. The recently developed technology pertaining to batteries has really spur interest in the electric car segment. Batteries are now smaller, lighter and capable of holding much more electric charge meaning it could last longer in between recharge.</p>
<p>However, the biggest problem with these batteries right now is the cost. They are quite expensive as compared to normal batteries, thus this will add up to the cost of the electric car. But once manufacturing technology gets improved, the price reduction is quite imminent.</p>
<p>Several car manufacturers are working hard and planning to put pure electric cars in the market in the next couple of years which are more efficient and have a longer driving range. You can simply plug in these cars in your garage power outlet for charging. The best thing is, you can drive these cars similar to an automobile with an internal combustion engine.</p>
<p>The range will also be increased and you can drive modern EVs for around 200 miles in a single charge. Understandably, these cars will cost more but you can recover your investment quickly because you will save lot of money on gasoline.</p>
<p>As a cheaper alternative, you can convert your present car into pure electric vehicle using an <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/">EV conversion</a> kit. You have the options either to wait till new technologies for EV are available or convert your present car into electric one. With the passage of time and technological advancement, it is only a matter of time before electric car is used by the mass market.</p>
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		<title>Vehicle Inspection Checklists &#8211; Systematic Inspection On Used Car</title>
		<link>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/donor-car/vehicle-inspection-checklists-on-used-car/</link>
		<comments>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/donor-car/vehicle-inspection-checklists-on-used-car/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:22:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Donor Car]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Systematic Inspection]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[used car]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vehicle Inspection Checklists]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/?p=2354</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As there has been spurt in prices of vehicles and people have to pay more money for second hand cars these days, it is very important to take proper precautions to make sure that the correct car is purchased at the lowest price and at the best possible terms. It is, therefore, imperative for those [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Used Car Lot" src="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/usedcar-e1322710607896.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="248" /></p>
<p>As there has been spurt in prices of vehicles and people have to pay more money for second hand cars these days, it is very important to take proper precautions to make sure that the correct car is purchased at the lowest price and at the best possible terms.</p>
<p>It is, therefore, imperative for those who are trying to buy a car to meticulously inspect the car before purchasing, instead of taking needless risks and wasting their hard earned money, as many people tend to do these days.</p>
<p>Most of the people presume that they know how to inspect a vehicle and spend just 5 to 10 minutes having a cursory glance at the vehicle. If someone is purchasing from those in the automobile business, those car dealers would simply go along with whatever the buyer wants. The buyer will ultimately end up buying a vehicle without proper check up.</p>
<p>The vehicle dealers are happy because they can now get the price they would like the buyer to pay for it. This happens when someone purchases a vehicle without observing the apparent defects, which any earnest buyer would have noticed.</p>
<p>A person buying a vehicle without proper inspection will be at a great disadvantage as people buy cars only once in two or three years. It means that people need not take unnecessary risks and buy vehicles in a hurry without proper checks.</p>
<p>If someone is serious about buying a good car, he should first familiarize himself with the techniques of buying a vehicle from experts in this field, who normally guide their friends and family members in purchasing cars. They can guide properly on what checks should be exercised before buying a vehicle.</p>
<p>They can explain the importance of vehicle inspection and various steps involved in it. Based on their advice a comprehensive checklist, covering various parts or items that should be inspected, can be prepared.</p>
<p>This check list will be helpful for the current purchase or any future purchase of vehicles of any make and model. A Vehicle Inspection Checklist will indicate what parts that one should check and what is likely to go wrong in a particular make and model.</p>
<p>For example, vehicle inspection should cover checking the performance of the engine, the condition of the battery, the functioning of shock absorbers, oil leaks etc. With this knowledge, one can look for these items as part of vehicle inspection process.</p>
<p>In other words, <em>vehicle inspection checklists</em> are reference points for checking the condition of the vehicle so that one may not overlook any aspect relating to a car. Many times people tend to forget to check certain obvious aspects of the car.</p>
<p>For example, sometimes we forget to check under a car as part of inspection at the time of purchasing and realize later that the oil is leaking. Such mistakes usually occur when one does not check the car with reference to the itemized details provided in the vehicle checklist and instead make it a rush job.</p>
<p>Vehicle inspections are not really difficult when one is guided properly. One should have the vehicle checklists from those in the trade in order to know how to carry out inspection right from the beginning. With checklists on hand, one will be able to inspect a car just as any professional does.</p>
<p><img class="alignright" title="Car Book" src="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Car-Book-e1328142003425.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="245" />Are you looking for ways to get the best deal from buying a used car? If you are, check out <strong>The Lazy Way To Buy &amp; Sell Car For Profit</strong> by Stephen Hobbs ebook.</p>
<p>Hobbs&#8217; guide will show you how to make a steady profits of $300 to $3000 from buying and selling used cars on a full-time or part-time basis. Click on the link below to visit his web site right now.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">==&gt; <a href="http://www.cbelectriccar.com/blog/carbook">Click here to visit Stephen Hobbs&#8217;s site!</a></h2>
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		<title>Car Rust Prevention &#8211; Prolonging Your Car Paint Job</title>
		<link>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/ev-conversion/car-rust-prevention-to-prolong-paint-job/</link>
		<comments>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/ev-conversion/car-rust-prevention-to-prolong-paint-job/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:27:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[EV Conversion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[car maintenance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[car paint job]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[car rust prevention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[salt and water]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/?p=2348</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Normally the cost of an automobile in the United States is around $30,000 and if your car is on a bank loan, it will cost you around $430 a month payment for six long years. With the addition of taxes, fee and insurance, the monthly installment rate goes up to as if you are paying [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Car Rust Prevention" src="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Rust-Repair-e1328088334999.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="233" /></p>
<p>Normally the cost of an automobile in the United States is around $30,000 and if your car is on a bank loan, it will cost you around $430 a month payment for six long years.</p>
<p>With the addition of taxes, fee and insurance, the monthly installment rate goes up to as if you are paying for home mortgage. Even though so much money goes into the funding of cars, people who own one do not bother to take proper care of their vehicles. It doesn’t make any sense, does it?</p>
<p>Proper maintenance of a car is absolutely a must as it increases the longevity of your investment. If people simply ignore and neglect their cars, it is only a matter of time before rust sets in and corrodes the internal and external metal sections of the vehicle. It is as if you’ve bought an expensive house and letting it get infested with termite, roaches, rats and other pests.</p>
<p>You can prevent your car from rusting by using simple measures of applying <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/do-it-yourself-diy/electric-car-body-paint-repair-with-quixx-paint-scratch-remover/">rust removal products</a>. Rust is a common problem and all vehicle owners hate it, but it is quite surprising that despite this problem, people do not bother to prevent it.</p>
<p>It has been proven that rust is a common problem in the areas where the proportion of salt and salty ocean air is present. The places which have high humidity often help in accelerating this issue.</p>
<p>Rust can also be seen in places which are highly industrialized. Though all cars sold by the car manufacturers are properly protected by paints and primers, this is not a fool proof solution. Due to wear and tear and scratches, sooner or later, the metal will come into contact with the salt and water and rust will begin to form.</p>
<p>The salt and water combination is mostly responsible for causing harm and weakening the car external finish as it helps the metal to lose its electrons. This causes the metal to rust and erosion begins.</p>
<p><a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/donor-car/3-tips-to-give-your-homemade-ev-shinning-paint-finish/">Proper polishing</a> of the paint finish every two weeks can get rid of such a nuisance and strengthen the paint from the inside out. Regular cleaning of the salt underneath your car will ensure that it does not get accumulated on the car body. This will go long way to reduce the recurrence of rust and corrosion.</p>
<p>There are many such paint maintenance options available in the market like <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/tools/porter-cable-7424-electric-polisher/">car polish</a> and wax which act as a lubricant. This not only gives your car a new look but simultaneously takes care of the rust problem also. These lubricants seal the surface and do not allow moisture to get deposited on your car.</p>
<p>For best results, clean and wax your car 2 &#8211; 3 times on a weekly basis. Those who use car wax and polish regularly have less problems of rust on their cars. Even small scratches on your cars should also be taken care of immediately.</p>
<p>You must buy a small quantity of the same color paint and apply it on the affected area with a small brush or a small toothpick. Ensure that you cover the entire scratched area to prevent the base metal from being exposed to air, salt and water.</p>
<p>The combination of these 3 elements is the perfect condition for rust to set in. A stitch in time saves nine, just a small maintenance task will increase the life and look of your car.</p>
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		<title>Buying A Used Cars &#8211; Hire An Expert Mechanic For Inspection</title>
		<link>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/donor-car/hire-an-expert-mechanic-for-inspection/</link>
		<comments>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/donor-car/hire-an-expert-mechanic-for-inspection/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 30 Jan 2012 04:29:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Donor Car]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Buying A Used Cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Car Inspection]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hire An Expert Mechanic]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/?p=2342</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When buying a car you are faced with several options. One of them is to outright buy a new one; but another one which is also great is to buy a used car. Used cars are available at a fraction of the price of the new one; but you have to carefully inspect it before [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Car Mechanic" src="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Auto-Mechanic-e1327897734681.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="270" /></p>
<p>When <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/donor-car/buying-used-car-on-the-internet/">buying a car</a> you are faced with several options. One of them is to outright buy a new one; but another one which is also great is to buy a used car.</p>
<p>Used cars are available at a fraction of the price of the new one; but you have to carefully inspect it before finalizing one. Just by looking at the exterior of the car will not tell you its internal condition.</p>
<p>When you are buying a second hand vehicle, it should be looking great as well as running great; it is essential for your own well-being as an unsound car can be very dangerous. The task of buying a perfect used car fulfilling all required conditions is very difficult; if not rare.</p>
<p>However, if you know how to inspect a car, you can land yourself a pretty set of wheels at a bargain price. But if you don’t know much about car inspections, or cars in general; then you can definitely hire a mechanic to assist you. He will assess the car condition and health and will report back to you with any anomalies he finds. When you don’t have the skill and knowledge, invest some money and hire someone who does.</p>
<p>These car mechanics have been at their jobs for years and know every nook and cranny inside an automobile. They are experts in their field and we should rely on them for their opinions. Apart from that, they also have all the materials and equipment to uncover any existing or impending damage that might be hidden from plain sight.</p>
<p>Car mechanics also have a fair idea about the cars true value and the costs you would incur to get it fixed and restored. He will also be able to tell you how the previous owner had maintained the vehicle.</p>
<p>When you know how much money needed for its repair, you can then make a smart decision whether to buy it or not. There is no point taking on unnecessary risk purchasing the used car based on luck.</p>
<h1>Before Buying A Used Car</h1>
<p>You must ask for a test drive of the car from the owner and also be accompanied by the mechanic. The mechanic will then be able to check the performance of the car as well as look for telltale signs of a troubled vehicle.</p>
<p>Always enquire about all the documents and certificates about the car. Knowing the exact model number, date of manufacture, modifications made and the original purchaser are important and might be required in the future.</p>
<p>Make sure that the car has an ‘<a href="http://www.dmv.org/sample-autocheck-report.php" target="_blank">Auto Check Report</a>’. This will ensure that the car you might be buying is legal on the streets and not smuggled or stolen. Make sure you give all the paperwork to the mechanic to assist him on his job.</p>
<p>The mechanic&#8217;s job is to inspect various aspects of the car such as suspension, wheel alignment, <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/ev-conversion/low-resistance-tires-for-evs/">tires</a>, engine, wheels, transmission, and signs of rust, <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/do-it-yourself-diy/electric-car-body-paint-repair-with-quixx-paint-scratch-remover/">scratches</a> or any other anomalies. He will also ensure the cars performance by checking for steering, emissions and brakes.</p>
<p>It is always better to hire an expert mechanic to analyze a car before buying because he will save you thousands of dollars of future expenses on repairs and maintenance. He will give you an idea of the unresolved issues and existing problems on the car.</p>
<p>A car mechanics fee ranges from $100 &#8211; $200. Your investment is definitely worth it because it will save you from all the future troubles you might encounter. Furthermore, if you are a novice, then asking for expert advice and tips is always a good way to gather knowledge about automobile.</p>
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		<title>Toyota Prius Not Starting? Try Checking The 12V Accessory Battery</title>
		<link>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/toyota-electric/prius-12v-accessory-battery/</link>
		<comments>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/toyota-electric/prius-12v-accessory-battery/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 25 Jan 2012 23:19:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Toyota Electric]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[12V Accessory Battery]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hybrid car]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[repair guide]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Toyota Prius]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/?p=2336</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Quite often, Toyota Prius owner gets stranded on the road or are held up at home because the car would not start. When the car does not start, most people normally conclude that the problem is with the dead Prius hybrid battery and proceed to repair the main battery. However, many times the main battery [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Prius 12V Battery" src="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/12battery-e1327533494631.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="283" /></p>
<p>Quite often, Toyota Prius owner gets stranded on the road or are held up at home because the car would not start. When the car does not start, most people normally conclude that the problem is with the dead <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/toyota-electric/toyota-prius-hybrid-battery-repair-guide/">Prius hybrid battery</a> and proceed to repair the main battery.</p>
<p>However, many times the main battery may not at all be the problem, but the <em>12 volt battery</em> in the Prius which is the culprit. If the 12 volt accessory battery is dead, the car would not start. It is as simple as that. Luckily, it is much easier to repair a 12 volt battery than work on the hybrid cells.</p>
<p>The following guidelines may be helpful to repair the 12 volt battery:</p>
<p>As a first step, the Prius battery’s cover should be opened. This can be done by pulling the handle situated right at the bottom left of the steering wheel.</p>
<p>After that the plastic protector to the battery located on the right-hand side of the engine should be opened and next, the small red plastic lid covering the positive port of the battery should be opened.</p>
<p>There is a positive cable, which has a white line painted on the rubber. This positive cable should be clipped to the positive port of the car providing the electric current from the <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/toyota-electric/toyota-prius-battery-guide/">Prius hybrid battery</a>.</p>
<p>The negative cable (black in color) should be clipped to the negative port of the car giving electric current, while doing this; it should be ensured that the other end does not touch any other metal before connecting to the Prius main cells as electric current may already be flowing through the cables.</p>
<p>Next step is to start the car to provide the charge and press the accelerator a little so that sufficient current flows to spark the 12 volts battery in the Prius.</p>
<p>After charging the battery, you should start your car and drive for at least 20 minutes without switching off the engine. This will recharge the battery sufficiently and ensure that it will not become dead, when the engine is turned off. Those using a battery charger should start the Prius and leave it charging overnight.</p>
<p>With all the steps, if your Prius battery still does not work, it means that there is a more serious problem with the hybrid cells. It costs around $5000 to buy hybrid cells without warranty from Toyota.</p>
<p>As this option is quite costly, it is much cheaper to repair the dead Prius cells via a Do It Yourself (DIY) approach thereby saving around $4000. The <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/toyota-electric/toyota-prius-battery-replacement-price/">dead Prius battery</a> cells can be replaced with the help of DIY replacement guide.</p>
<p>The repair guide is prepared by experienced mechanics that specialize in reconstructing HB packs. The guide gives step by step instructions with detailed pictures.</p>
<p>Alternatively, those not keen in buying new battery cells from Toyota spending $5000; they can buy rebuilt the battery pack by spending half of that money. However, this still works out costly.</p>
<p>Considering all available options, it is highly recommended to take the help of Prius Hybrid guide and repair it by the user himself.</p>
<h1>Toyota Prius Battery Replacement Guide</h1>
<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Hybrid Battery Rebuilding" src="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/priusbattery-e1314233403456.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="302" /></p>
<p>Is there a cheaper option to replace the battery pack on a Toyota Prius? As a matter of fact, the guys at <a href="http://www.cbelectriccar.com/blog/priusbattery_site">www.hybridbatteryrebuild.com</a> can get the battery replaced for under $500. Want to know they can get it done so cheap? Click on the link below to learn the answer.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">==&gt; <a href="http://www.cbelectriccar.com/blog/priusbattery_site">Click here to visit Prius Battery Replacement Guide</a>!</h2>
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		<title>Simple Tips To Get The Most Out Of Your DIY Electric Car Batteries</title>
		<link>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/batteries/getting-the-most-out-of-your-ev-batteries/</link>
		<comments>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/batteries/getting-the-most-out-of-your-ev-batteries/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 21 Jan 2012 23:23:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Batteries]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deep cycle battery]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DIY electric car]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[homemade EV]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lithium ion batteries]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/?p=2332</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How do you save cost and yet get the most driving mileage out of your homemade electric car? Many Do It Yourself (DIY) electric vehicle enthusiasts utilize Sealed Lead Acid Batteries (SLA) mainly because they are relatively much cheaper than lithium-ion batteries. However, the SLA’s life span is about half that of lithium batteries. Then [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Old Deep Cycle Battery" src="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Old-Batteries-e1324864356201.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="262" /></p>
<p>How do you save cost and yet get the most driving mileage out of your <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/homemade-electric-car/homemade-electric-car-how-to-get-started-with-a-diy-electric-vehicle/">homemade electric car</a>? Many Do It Yourself (DIY) electric vehicle enthusiasts utilize Sealed Lead Acid Batteries (SLA) mainly because they are relatively much cheaper than <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/toyota-electric/replace-prius-battery-after-warranty-period/">lithium-ion batteries</a>. However, the SLA’s life span is about half that of lithium batteries. Then again, current lithium batteries used on EVs cost an arm and a leg.</p>
<p>Even with lithium-ion batteries, lithium iron phosphate batteries, known as LFP are comparatively stable than the cobalt-based lithium batteries manufactured for a few commercial vehicles. While cobalt-based lithium batteries are more efficient in operation due to ‘higher energy density’, the cycle life of this type of battery is much less than the lithium-ion batteries with phosphate or magnesium compounds as cathodes or even polymers.</p>
<p>Moreover without proper maintenance or supervision, the cobalt-based battery may get overcharged resulting in a fire, a condition called ‘thermal runaway’. On the other hand, lithium batteries with phosphate compound based cathodes have better chemical properties that protect the batteries in case of overcharging.</p>
<p>Most of the lead-based batteries used in electric vehicles do not have any provision for regulating the charge. In such situations, the batteries just get fully charged. However, a proper management during charging will be a good idea since you don’t want to damage the expensive batteries that you’ve invested.</p>
<p>In some of the <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/toyota-electric/toyota-prius-hybrid-battery-repair-guide/">battery packs</a>, it suffers the risk of being fully, and yet it has not attained the full-charge state. This is not a good thing because it will decrease the plate area in the battery and in turn reduces its charge capacity.</p>
<p>A good battery management system (BMS) is essential for your <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/">DIY electric car</a> if you are using deep cycle batteries.</p>
<p>Do you know what is the usual percentage of charge when the battery is in idle condition?</p>
<p>While a number of people are of the view that the idle charge for lithium batteries should be 45%, others do not agree with this percentage. The idle charge of batteries depends upon several factors, such as environment, ambient temperature, quality of battery and others. Many people feel that the charge for lithium battery lasts longer even if it is charged partially.</p>
<p>It is a bit challenging to determine accurately at what percentage of charge for batteries when in idle condition. Nevertheless, you can reasonably conclude that 85% charge for a battery in idle condition is adequate. Thus, if you go on a holiday trip for a couple of days, set your BMS to charge the batteries at this level. When you return, your EV batteries will still have most of its juice.</p>
<p>It is not clear why the ‘lithium substrate’ gets worn out when left idle in almost fully charged condition, especially when it is hot. This characteristic is fairly well recorded for cobalt batteries, it is not certain how much does this apply for phosphate-based lithium batteries.</p>
<p>The batteries would last longer, if you drive short distances and recharges the batteries only partially but doing it frequently. Whenever possible, it is better to charge the batteries during the day, when you haven’t been using your EV for long distance driving which will deplete the batteries to a low level.</p>
<p>In conclusion, as the owner of a homemade electric vehicle, your driving habits and lifestyle will determine how often you should recharge the battery pack. Charging the battery pack every day as a matter of routine is very important to ensure long life for the battery.</p>
<p>With ever increasing prices of gasoline and other petroleum products, using an electric car is much more economical than conventional vehicles with an internal combustion engine power plant. Contrary to what many people believe, charging the battery pack all night just to retain top voltage is not at all necessary.</p>
<p>The best way to preserve batteries is to charge them regularly, ensure that they are not overcharged and utilize a systematically battery management system (BMS).</p>
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		<title>Technology Advancement Making Pure Electric Cars Practical</title>
		<link>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/electric-car-benefits/technology-advancement-making-ev-practical/</link>
		<comments>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/electric-car-benefits/technology-advancement-making-ev-practical/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 20 Jan 2012 06:24:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Electric Car Benefits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[electric vehicle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pure electric car]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[technology advancement]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/?p=2327</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For the last couple of years, the electric car DC batteries have been put to different design tests to check out the optimum efficiency. The prototypes were built to test the designs which were offered for sale after making certain designs adjustments. It is fair to say this is an exciting time for electric vehicle [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Electric Car Batteries" src="http://www.intellasia.net/news/uploads/5/toyota.prius-engine0906g420.jpg" alt="" width="420" height="275" /></p>
<p>For the last couple of years, the electric car <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/batteries/how-to-handle-the-batteries-on-your-electric-car/">DC batteries</a> have been put to different design tests to check out the optimum efficiency. The prototypes were built to test the designs which were offered for sale after making certain designs adjustments. It is fair to say this is an exciting time for electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts.</p>
<p>Today the world has greatly improved <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/toyota-electric/toyota-prius-battery-rebuild/">battery storage</a> technology which has aroused great interest in the practicality of pure electric cars. Before, no one gave a lot of interest to EV when gasoline prices were relative low and batteries were not up to the mark.</p>
<p>Now, the situation is very much different. With the rising gas prices and battery becoming smaller, lighter and able to last longer, the humble <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/">electric car</a> is getting much attention these days and is gaining popularity.</p>
<p>When EV was introduced to the mass market, there were problems with earlier models because they were powered by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Direct_current" target="_blank">Direct Current</a> (DC) energy source. The older batteries which supplied the power were very heavy in weight and have proved ineffective due to battery life.</p>
<p>The biggest issue was that these cars required highly powerful electric motor to move the vehicle because the weight of the batteries was very high. Such a drawback limited the range and increased demand for more batteries. More battery means more weight to the car. Can you see how this is a perpetual negative cycle?</p>
<p>The main goal of EV manufacturers was to reduce the weight of the batteries and have it last longer before needing a recharge. Engineers were desperately trying to find an alternative to DC batteries. Luckily, they have made novel designs improvements on electric cars making it less demanding on the batteries.</p>
<p>One system which engineers used was to put a small generator that uses gasoline to charge the batteries. This method proved very effective as this system kept band of batteries enough charge to run the cars on electric motor thus extending its mileage.</p>
<p>Other system which was being explored simultaneously was to have Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels to charge the batteries as the EV is being driven during day time. The additional charge from the PV panels will definitely keep the batteries juiced up when it is on the road.</p>
<p>This system worked very well on sunny days but ineffective during night time. Although not perfect, the range of electric trial cars got broadened.</p>
<p>Due to the technology improvements in the recent years, the public interest on pure electric cars has increased tremendously. As battery designs have become smaller and lighter, the life span of a charged battery is also improving. With the constant improvement in battery technology, it is only a matter of time before the practically of EV out strip a car using an internal combustion engine.</p>
<p>The only problem now is the cost of such batteries which makes electric cars more expensive. With the advancement in the technology and mass production, prices are expected to come down. There is a hope such cars will be available in the market in next couple of years.</p>
<p>As a matter of fact, you can already purchase road ready pure electric cars from BMW, <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/chevrolet/chevrolet-volt-what-you-ought-to-know/">Chevrolet</a>, Nissan and Ford. Understandably, EVs are not as good as their fossil fuel burning brothers. But give it some time, technology will make it better.</p>
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		<title>Growing The Plug-in Vehicle and Pure Electric Car Market</title>
		<link>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/ev-news/plug-in-vehicle-and-pure-electric-car-market/</link>
		<comments>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/ev-news/plug-in-vehicle-and-pure-electric-car-market/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 18 Jan 2012 04:54:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[EV News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nissan leaf]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Plug-in Vehicle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pure electric car]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Toyota Prius plugin]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/?p=2322</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There is an increasing awareness among people these days about pollution-free environment and they are also more conscious on ways to save on their gasoline bill. With that, more and more people are constantly on the look out for eco-friendly cars that not only cause less harmful impact on the environment, it will also help [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Ford Focus Electric" src="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Ford-focus-electric.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="223" /></p>
<p>There is an increasing awareness among people these days about pollution-free environment and they are also more conscious on ways to save on their gasoline bill.</p>
<p>With that, more and more people are constantly on the look out for eco-friendly cars that not only cause less harmful impact on the environment, it will also help them to be less dependent on fossil fuel thus countering the effects of soaring fuel prices.</p>
<p>There are broadly two types of vehicles that are categorized as eco-friendly:</p>
<ul>
<li>Plug-in-hybrid vehicle</li>
<li>Pure battery powered electric car</li>
</ul>
<p>Finding the ideal eco-friendly car is not easy as it requires a very fair knowledge about various types of <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/ev-conversion/gavin-shoebridge-new-zealand-electric-car-conversion-manual/">energy saving vehicles</a> and their advantages and disadvantages.</p>
<p>They are many reputed manufactures that have now put eco-friendly cars in their production lines, with companies like Ford, Nissan, General Motors and Toyota being at the forefront in this market.</p>
<p>The following paragraphs will explain the features of the two popular types of eco-friendly vehicles and their advantages and disadvantages.</p>
<h1>Plug-in-hybrid Vehicles</h1>
<p>These types of vehicles run either on gas, battery or both. You cannot drive long distances on battery alone. However, there will not be any need to stop at a gas station for fuel often.</p>
<p>One of the well-known names in the market for plug-in hybrid type of vehicles is Chevrolet. Chevrolet has designed one of the most popular models of this type of vehicle known as <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/chevrolet/chevy-volt-pure-electric-car-vide/">Chevy Volt</a>.</p>
<p>Chevy Volt can easily get a distance of 40 miles drive powered exclusively by a battery per single charge and an amazing 500 miles per gas fill-up. This type of vehicle is ideal for a person who is concerned with clean environment and does not want as yet to dispense with the internal combustion engine.</p>
<p>Chevrolet is concentrating on designing new models of plug-in hybrid vehicles in which higher capacity battery will be added to the vehicles to enable users to drive longer distances with a single battery charge.</p>
<p>The other principal manufacturer in the plug-in hybrid market is Toyota. Although the <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/toyota-electric/toyota-prius-battery-guide/">Toyota Prius</a> appears similar to a standard Toyota Prius, the addition in this model is the port for charging the battery. While it gives only a low mileage range of 14 miles on battery power, it gets an incredible 50 miles per gallon, when in hybrid mode.</p>
<h2>Pure Battery-Powered Electric Car</h2>
<p>As the name implies, these types of vehicles are powered only by electricity supplied by battery and therefore, is not provided with a gasoline motor.</p>
<p>One of the principal manufacturers of the pure electric vehicle is Nissan. Nissan has developed the most popular model, Nissan Leaf. This vehicle gets an astounding 100 miles per charge and is the first automobile manufacturer to produce more than 10,000 pure battery electric vehicles.</p>
<p>With such an extraordinary efficiency, it is no wonder that the company has been receiving huge number of orders from both individual users and city and town public service institutions. The basic price of a 2011 Nissan Leaf is around $32,000.</p>
<p>Ford, another leading automobile manufacturer has also ventured into the all electric vehicle market segment with their Ford Focus Electric. Ford has already manufactured the maximum number of hybrid vehicles than any other manufacturer and is now trying to establish leadership in the <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/">electric car</a> category as well.</p>
<p>The Ford Focus Electric, which runs only on battery, plans to compete with the Nissan Leaf. Just as the Nissan Leaf, the Focus Electric gets 100 miles per charge. Another advantage with the Ford Focus is that it comes at a lower price of around $20,000 as compared to Nissan Leaf.</p>
<p>Ford plans to introduce more number of models of Focus Electric cars to cater to the requirements of diverse range of customers.</p>
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		<title>3 Innovative Ideas To Extend The Driving Range Of Electric Cars</title>
		<link>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/batteries/3-ideas-to-extend-ev-mileage/</link>
		<comments>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/batteries/3-ideas-to-extend-ev-mileage/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 Jan 2012 22:52:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Batteries]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[battery bank]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[battery pack]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[electric car battery]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[EV recharging]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/?p=2317</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Use of renewable energy would become more fascinating if there is an option of charging our electric car when being driven. At present these electric vehicles (EV) can have a running range of 30 to 200 miles; it solely depends upon the type of batteries being used in the electric car. There is a limit [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Electric Motor Generator" src="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Electric-Motor-Generator-e1326408647566.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="233" /></p>
<p>Use of renewable energy would become more fascinating if there is an option of <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/tools/sunforce-50022-review-solar-trickle-charger/">charging our electric car</a> when being driven. At present these electric vehicles (EV) can have a running range of 30 to 200 miles; it solely depends upon the type of batteries being used in the electric car.</p>
<p>There is a limit of using these cars due to the range, as these cars whether being used in city limits or highways need to be parked and slowly recharged overnight before starting again. The short range limits the users to use EVs to commute to work and back on same day or may be short highway trips, and nothing more than that.</p>
<p>The big question arises, is there a way so that auxiliary batteries charge the car while the car is moving? The renewal process can be similar to the gasoline run cars where 12V batteries get charged with the electric circuit simultaneously.</p>
<p>There could be different mechanism, but what are the options? What kind of generators can be used to power the batteries of electric car when in motion?<br />
There are few concepts but the three options which can be used or considered are:-</p>
<h2>1. Fly wheel generators.</h2>
<p>There could be an option of adding relatively large lightweight frictionless generators to the wheels or axles of the car; these can be fixed on the rear wheels especially for the cars which have front wheel drive. These wheel generators can recharge the batteries without parking the car or can automatically add electricity to the car.</p>
<h2>2. Small wind generators.</h2>
<p>These generators will be different than the traditional windmill type fixed on the top of the car. Though it seems somewhat awkward, but can be explored. It can be large squirrel-cage fan installed transversely under the hood parallel to front wheel drive motor. On the each end of the axle will be a frictionless rotating generator which will have same functions as wheel generators.</p>
<p>These changes are quite possible due to the size of electric engine which is quite small as compared to gasoline engines, this will provide extra space under the hood, and this can be possible only if the bulky power batteries and the electronic speed controller are fixed in some other part of the car.</p>
<p>The use of radiator cooling system and also in some cases transmission may not be required in the electric car which gives extra space under the hood for such an arrangements.</p>
<h2>3. Self-feeding electric motor generator.</h2>
<p>There can be possibility of fixing powerful generator to the <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/electric-motor/cheap-electric-motor-for-electric-car-use-forklift-motor/">electric motor</a> itself. This can ensure recharging of the batteries if the car is moving fairly in good speed, or alternatively it feed electricity back into the motor. The drawback of differing rotational speeds occurring at the differing lineal speed of the car will have to be addressed to.</p>
<p>This arrangement can be used mostly on highways rather on city roads due to speed restriction. The main point here is that generators will not activate before the car has reached at the preset speeds. These are only thoughts but these thoughts are worth exploring and it has to be decided by the automobile engineers if such arrangements can really work.</p>
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		<title>Pure Electric Car &#8211; A Replacement For Gasoline Powered Automobile</title>
		<link>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/electric-car-benefits/ev-replacement-for-gasoline-automobile/</link>
		<comments>http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/electric-car-benefits/ev-replacement-for-gasoline-automobile/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 Jan 2012 04:25:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Will</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Electric Car Benefits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[battery bank]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Electric Motor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[old automobile]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pure electric car]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/?p=2312</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Have you ever spotted an electric car on the street, it is quite impossible to identify such cars as these cars quite resemble gasoline powered cars? If you are an automobile enthusiast, you can probably spot easily an electric vehicle (EV) among many cars, the other way is to spot an electric powered car is [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Pure Electric Car" src="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Volt-EV-e1325303625904.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="224" /></p>
<p>Have you ever spotted an electric car on the street, it is quite impossible to identify such cars as these cars quite resemble gasoline powered cars? If you are an automobile enthusiast, you can probably spot easily an electric vehicle (EV) among many cars, the other way is to spot an electric powered car is the excellent level of silence that these cars have.</p>
<p>The beauty lies in the silence of the motor of electric powered cars which does not produce any deadly emissions. The technology of the gasoline powered and electric powered cars is totally different and all the difference lies in the hoods of these cars.</p>
<p>If you want to know the working of EV, you need to explore the hood by opening it. The gasoline powered car engine contains many boxes and pipes which looks like a complicated plumbing work but with pure electric cars, the features are totally different and looks like a complicated electrical work.</p>
<p>The car which is electric powered uses its motor to power the wheels which will be totally different than gasoline powered cars. The <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/electric-motor/cheap-electric-motor-for-electric-car-use-forklift-motor/">electric motor</a> directly uses electricity and starts rotating, which means the power is instant and this power can be used from the get go.</p>
<p>The main problem with EV is when it climbs a steep hill. This energy system is not adequate to propel the car upward on hilly surfaces. This is one of the challenge EV manufacturers are working very hard to resolve.</p>
<p>Initially, the electric car motor were powered by normal car batteries which did not have long usage life, but now this issue has been resolved to great extent by using modern <a href="http://cbelectriccar.com/blog/toyota-electric/toyota-prius-battery-guide/">lithium-ion batteries</a> that will allow you to drive your eco-friendly vehicle for a longer duration without having to be recharged.</p>
<p>The working principle in the electric vehicle is an AC charger which charges the battery unit. After starting the vehicle, the power is directly passed on from the battery bank to the electric motor. There is a meter which is known as voltmeter instead of gasoline meter normally found in gasoline run cars. The voltmeter shows the level of remaining battery charge which is an indication to get the batteries recharged.</p>
<p>Pure electric cars do not have clutches therefore you have limited control on the power output from the motor. Instead of an accelerator, it has a potentiometer that allows increasing or decreasing the torque generated by the electric motor.</p>
<p>If you are planning to use air conditioner in your car, there is an additional battery source used for onboard heater. The power windows and other accessories are also powered by this secondary electric power source.</p>
<p>As compared to an automobile powered by an internal combustion engine, increasing the speed on an EV will give you a lower mileage because more current is needed to power the motor. Understandably, the present pure electric cars in the market have many flaws. But with the passage of time and improvement in technology, these cars will become more efficient and most importantly become cheaper to buy. Pure electric vehicles are the best alternatives to gasoline which has contributed to the destruction of our environment.</p>
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