Electric VW Dune Buggy Test Bed.

I am writing to share my vision for a unique and innovative project that I plan to undertake upon retirement – the creation of an electric VW dune buggy test bed equipped with a small gas generator on board. 

This concept combines elements of both electric and traditional vehicles, offering several advantages over conventional designs while maintaining the efficiency and environmental benefits associated with electric powertrains.  

Because the generator is just connected to the car electrically, it will be easy to swap this component out, or to not use it at all if your commute is short enough.  This is much simpler than other hybrid vehicle designs that build the motor into the drive train. If this component needs swapped out, it should be simple and cheap to do it. 

The primary objective of this project is to develop a more efficient energy storage system for electric vehicles by utilizing a small gas generator to maintain a constant charge in the battery pack. By running the generator at a steady rate, the battery will receive a continuous supply of power, ensuring optimal performance even during extended periods of use. This generator should be sized big enough to actually run the motor and be able to charge the battery as it goes down the road. The vehicle will draw power from the battery when you are starting, or driving uphill. 

The generator could also run for an extended amount of time when you get to where you are going to top off the battery pack for the return journey. This could be while you are taking a rest break, or eating lunch, or while the car is parked at work.  The generator could shut off once the battery pack is charged, and it could be turned off by a timer.

This design allows for a significantly smaller battery pack compared to traditional electric vehicles, reducing overall weight and cost. It will also greatly reduce the cost of swapping the battery pack out. A smaller battery pack also reduces the amount of material used, and reduces the amount of material that has to be recycled at the end of life. 

I also plan on testing out capacitor booster packs that can store the energy to take off from a dead stop up to cruising speed, so the battery isn't discharged from this action. It may be able to reduce the discharge, recharge cycling on the battery pack.  And capacitors can be completely charged and discharged for decades before they come apart. Best case   

Because it runs off gasoline, it can be quickly gassed up at any gas station.  No need to find a charger, wait in a long line, then slowly charge the battery. It also doesn't put a big draw on the electric grid.  Not even if millions of small cars like this were on the road. 

Another key feature of this proposed test bed is its ability to provide warmth in cold weather conditions through the use of forced air circulation from the gas generator. This heated air can be directed towards the battery pack, preventing potential damage due to freezing temperatures and extending the vehicle's operational lifespan and range. It may be possible to use the waste heat from this small motor to also heat the passenger compartment in cold weather. 

In conclusion, I believe that this innovative approach to electric vehicle technology has the potential to revolutionize the industry by offering improved efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced durability. All while using an existing supply chain and without requiring massive changes to electric grids and  As I move closer to retirement, I am eager to explore new avenues of creativity and contribute positively to society through projects like this one. 

Your support and guidance would be greatly appreciated as I embark on this exciting journey.