Thanks for the positive messages. It is very much appreciated. I discussed it with Richard awhile back and he was interested as well. Why have I kept quiet? It’s the busiest time at work for me (airline pilot), three small kids, a garden that is going crazy in the good weather and a wife who makes dark comments about selling some of the cars when I’m at work!
The Europa is down to the Fibreglass and awaiting my attention. Mechanically it’s all done but I want to get the body right.
The systems integration has been the most challenging. Fitting the motor was easy. Finding a place for all the batteries was the hardest part. As you all know there isn’t much spare space in any Lotus. The first iteration has the battery pack mounted centrally over the motor. This is fine to get the project moving and to keep all the batteries in one place. However, it’s at the highest point in the car. I could fit two modules (26”x11”x3”) in the front boot and two above the motor. Yes, I am aware that there is a potential fire hazard up front but have you seen where the petrol tanks are on a Porsche 904 or Abarth monomille/bialberos?!
The Europa is almost perfect for a conversion. Small, very light, aerodynamic and above all an interesting car. Early diy conversions tended to be small econoboxes or knackered pick-ups. Good to get moving but it doesn’t make for an interesting car. Well, even after the conversion they still drive like econoboxes and pickups. I still take my hat off to them though. Without them there would be no interest or information at all and I am most grateful for that.
It has to be stressed that all of this is reversible.
Chuck, sorry to have hi-jacked your thread. I’ll start a new one if folks are still interested.
