OwnerDavid Brunson
LocationSpringfield, Illinois United States map
Email email image
Vehicle1981 Commuter Vehicles Inc. Comuta-Car
MotorD&D Motor Systems, Inc. 10 HP Series Wound DC
ControllerAlltrax 7245
Batteries12 Exide 145s, 6.00 Volt, Lead-Acid, Flooded
4 in the front, 4 under the seat, 4 in the back.
System Voltage72 Volts
ChargerZivan NG-1
HeaterHeat is a state of mind. Someday I'll worry about it. Air conditioning is a floor mounted 12V fan which really does a decent job of cooling on the warmest days.
DC/DC Converter
None. One 12V accessory battery for car systems.
InstrumentationUsual auto plus charge meters and an expanded scale voltmeter "fuel" gage.
Top Speed53 MPH (85 KPH)
It stays nicely with traffic in 40 mph speed zones. After field weakening, I can get to 50+. Maximum level ground speed since the conversion from 48 to 72 volts has been 53 mph.
AccelerationGood. Much better than the original 48V system. It doesn't exactly push you back in the seat, but it doesn't get left behind.
Range40 Miles (64 Kilometers)
Something over 40 miles although I have never pushed it as far as I could because I believe in being kind to the batteries.
Watt Hours/MileNot tested.
EV Miles
Start:1,300 Miles (2,091 Kilometers)
Current:15,000 Miles (24,135 Kilometers)
Total:13,700 Miles (22,043 Kilometers)
Seating Capacity2
Curb Weight1,600 Pounds (727 Kilograms)
Tires13" Radials, much better than my old trailer tires.
Conversion TimeMany hours spend updating original wiring, brakes, charger, batteries, contactors, motor brushes and seals, shocks, wheels, lights, and many other parts. Bringing back any 28 year old car is a job no matter what kind of car it is.
Conversion CostIn total, about the 1981 asking price.
Additional FeaturesThis car also has the optional sunroof.
I haven't had this much fun driving a car since I was 16. These little cars don't exactly have a Cadillac ride, but they are fantastic in their own way. I drive it to work everyday and use it for all of my errands. If you live in an area where 40-45 mph speed limits are common, this car is very practical and a scream to drive. Besides plugging it in at night and watering the batteries every two weeks, the only other "problem", if you want to call it that, is answering everyone's questions. I can't even go to the grocery without people wanting to stop and talk. They follow me taking cell phone pictures and even get out of their cars at stoplights to have a look. It has been great fun!

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