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Electric is the future
The eVaro proves that electricity is the ultimate fuel
June 2010 |
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Started with a bump - ended on a high note |
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The week started out hot and sunny in Michigan. The eVaro suffered a little "heat stroke" in the first two events but after some adjustments really performed. It travelled the highway event (90 miles @ 50mph) with lots left in the pack. Then came the range test ( 68 miles @ 60 mph) using about the same amount of energy. Looks like our total range is farther than we anticipated. As a result of the issues on our first two tests we were given a penalty (in mpge) which brought our overall mpge down. Several other teams also recieved penalties, but even with the penalties the eVaro was way beyond the requirements to continue on. Our numbers were over 200mpge for many of the tests (even at 60 mph) so we are very pleased with the eVaro's performance. With our 100+ mile range (at highway speeds) and the range extending generator, the eVaro just keeps going, and going...
One reason for the increase in range is our custom motors which  are performing really well. We are also very pleased with our EIG batteries. Even with the long tests and the Michigan heat the cells have not heated up. Pretty impressive.
So far it looks like 12 teams will not be advancing to the finals (however some are in appeal, and the knockout stage is not over). We will miss the teams not continuing on. They have devoted thousands of hours, sacrificed family time, and in most cases used personal funds all in an effort to improve the world and our environment. We wish them all the best and hope they will continue their quest for 100 mpge. The world needs a big selection of super efficient vehicles and the X Prize is just the begining of the journey towards a self sustaining society.
Next week brings more testing, crash avoidance, 0-60 and G force tests. |
