How much power do I need to move a car?

Question

Hello, First Timer Here.

I would like to know, how much power, whether it be in horsepower or other, do I need to move a car or start movement on car. I'm brainstorming an idea for an electric car. I'm trying to find out how much horsepower (motors) do I need to start to move a car and then work my way up to speed.

Thank you.

Answer 1

You need to define a few more requirements for your car. Start with estimates of the weight and counterforces (friction, drag, etc.) on the car. Then arbitrarily choose a power level and see how fast that will make your car go based on your estimates. Then you should be able to iterate the process to choose a power setting that will give you the desired velocity and weight.

Answer 2

Anything less than 50 HP an it's not much of an electric car, at all. Even the smallest high-fuel-efficiency commuter cars have gasoline engines between 50 and 100 HP.

Consider a "go-cart" that is nothing but a tubular frame, gas engine, wheels, seat, and controls, and it can barely reach speeds of 25-30 mph with a 5 HP motor.

.