Interior viewRear viewSolar charge control
OwnerAndy Schoenberg
LocationSalt Lake City, Utah United States map
Web/EmailWebPage email image
Vehicle2007 Kit Ecotrike IX
Solar Powered Three-wheeled electric motorcycle. Has streamlined enclosure with 160 watt solar panels on roof. Pedal powered generator also charges batteries.
MotorScott /KTA Five Star PM 1.6 HP Permanent Magnet DC
Two Motors each at 1.6 hp continuous
5. hp intermittent. 24-36 v dc 2800 rpm
60 amps continuous 300 amps max.
DrivetrainTwo electric motors connected to rear wheels via v-belt and chain drive with net 7 to 1 speed reduction.
ControllerCurtis 1206 Controller 275 amps
12-48 volt dc controller with Thumb 0-5 k ohm throttle.
Batteries8 Thunder Sky 90 AHr, 3.20 Volt, Lithium-Ion
These are Lithium Ferric Phosphate batteries connected in series
System Voltage26 Volts
ChargerSolar Custom
Two Kyocera 80 watt solar panels connected in series charge the batteries.
Custom made PV controller stops charge at 30 volts. Led lights monitor over and under charge of each 3.2 volt module
HeaterNone
DC/DC Converter
None
InstrumentationSolar charge current
Battery voltage
Battery percent charge
Turn signal, light switch, horn
Top Speed30 MPH (48 KPH)
No gear changing so speed is set by wheel size and pulley ratio. Speed could be increased at cost of hill climbing ability.
AccelerationNot measured but good reaching 30 mph in less than 10 seconds. Has adequate power for most hills in Salt Lake City.
Range30 Miles (48 Kilometers)
Depending on terrain.
Watt Hours/Mile77 Wh/Mile
This was calculated from mileage obtained while driving in the city with some stopping and mild hill climbing
EV Miles
Current: Miles (0 Kilometers)
 
    As of 11/9/2008
Seating Capacity1 adult
Curb Weight270 Pounds (122 Kilograms)
Vehicle without batteries weighs 216 lbs. Lithium FeP batteries weigh 54 lbs.
Tires24 inch bicycle tires
Conversion TimeBuild time 9 months
Conversion CostApproximately $5000 including $1500 for batteries, $800 for solar panels and $1000 for motors and controller.
Additional FeaturesAluminum honeycomb, canvas and plastic body. Seat belt.
Vehicle can be tilted on its rear to use 1/4 of a parking space.
This is a prototype street-legal vehicle classed as a "Moped" in Utah. I use it for most trips under 5 miles one way for shopping and recreation.
Earlier versions included lead acid and NiMH batteries.
Check out www.sunzeecar.com WebPage for more information.
A newer "kit" version is being built which will have hub motors in 2 rear wheels and a top speed of 35 mph.

code by jerry