The current supply chain issues have presented some challenges in getting parts we need. We ordered a custom, more powerful motor almost 6 months ago and it finally arrived. With the machining of a modified axle bracket, it’s now installed. The anticipation is that this motor will be able to fully power the vehicle while driving at speeds of 50+ mph. The previous motor wasn’t able to get all the way there – the gas engine had to provide some level of assist. This previous system topped out at about 30 mpg for combined city/highway driving. It remains to be seen just how much better this motor allows the system to get in terms of fuel efficiency.
Machining of the rear axle bracket that supports the new, larger motor The new more powerful electric motor belted to the custom-designed pulley that sits between the rear pinion shaft flange and the rear driveshaft flange A close-up view of the motor as it attaches to the rear axle