How practical is a lead-acid battery electric car for a 25-mile daily commute? I'd like to charge everywhere.

Question

This question pertains to a 120-volt DC electric vehicle with lead acid batteries. If the lead acid batteries are drawn down to nearly zero, how many cycles should I expect? Is it true that it takes 15 hours to charge a typical 120-V battery pack from a 15A electric outlet?

Why aren't there any "off the shelf" 120V DC battery chargers for EV's on the market that work off a standard15A (in North America) electric outlet?

Answer 1

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Well, you're talking to an electric car owner. Lead-acid batteries should last 20,000 to 30,000 miles, if you take care of them (running them all the way down to zero will reduce the life of the batteries.)
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I charge mine from a 15amp outlet, and my charges usually take 6 to 12 hours, depending on how far down I've drawn the batteries.
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There are off-the-shelf chargers that will do what you want. Look at the Russco and Zivan chargers on this page:
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http://www.electroauto.com/catalog/charger.shtml
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Charging everywhere (home, work, friend's houses) is a great idea, and you don't have to allow time for a full charge. Topping off your charge at each opportunity you get will greatly extend your driving range, and is also healthy for your batteries.
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Answer 2

look into getting a citicar or commutacar. They are pretty funny looking, but it's a pure electric car designed specifically for commuting. Has about a 30-40 mile range, and tops out around 30-35 mph. I've got one in storage that I'm renovating that was made in the late 70's. They aren't that expensive, and are pretty simple to work on. Plus, there is a fabulous support network online to help you out. There is one listed on ebay right now for $2500. Not a bad way to go really... as long as you don't mind people making funny looks. I've had nothing but curiosity everywhere I take mine. good luck!

Answer 3

If you use 12v batteries, use those designed for trolling motors, they are designed for deep discharge.

http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Electric_vehicle_conversion