Update

I haven't posted for a few weeks. I took my family on holidays to rainy Queensland for 2 weeks and I haven't done much more EV purchasing.

I do have the contactors ordered from ZEVA and I have ordered a different brake vacuum pump from eBay.

The next critical step in the project is to buy a vehicle. Most people buy the vehicle first, then design around it. I am do it the other way around. Mostly because of my technology choices. (AC). I have been checking tradingpost.com.au and drive.com.au every Thursday for a 2 week drive, 89-95 Extra Cab, Toyota Hilux.

I have also bought some 12 volt kettles to use the elements and a pump for a water heater. Construction photos to follow.

In the last week I have enquired about ZEBRA batteries from MES-DEA. They said they 'usually' only supply to OEMs so I asked for pricing anyway. These are fantastic batteries. I only hope that they will allow me to purchase one.

If you are reading this and you are in Australia, I strongly recommend you check out www.aeva.asn.au/forums This is a great source of information on conversions.

Speed controller arrived today from WA

My Danfoss VLT6042 arrived today.

It is in an IP54 case so it is splash proof. This is the best considering it will be under the bonnet. The penalty is that it weighs an extra 20Kg above the IP20 model.

I removed the fan unit from the top as it will be cooled from the heatsink on the back.

All going well it will be just short enough to fit between the front guards of the yet to be purchased Extra Cab Hilux. With the fan removed it is 820mm. The guard width is 900mm.

I ran it up on 230V and it can be programed from the keypad. I am having trouble getting the RS485 computer connection working. I will have to buy a different RS485 converter I think.