Concept Car Of The Day: 1979 Chrysler GE ETV-1 - AllCarIndex
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In the past, an experimental four-passenger electric test vehicle known as the ETV-1 was developed for the U.S. Department of Energy by the General Electric Research and Development Center and Chrysler Corporation. This GE/Chrysler car was praised for its impressive performance, comfort, drivability, and styling. The sporty two-door hatchback had a driving range of over 100 miles under specific passenger load and driving conditions. Powered by 18 high energy density lead-acid batteries that fed a direct current electric motor, the car was known for being quiet and vibration-free.
The vehicle featured sleek styling to minimize aerodynamic drag, independent front and rear suspension, low rolling resistance radial tires, computerized electronic controls with push-button convenience, and an on-board charger with regenerative braking capabilities. The RTV-1 was another experimental electric test vehicle developed for the U.S. Department of Energy by Globe Union Inc., the General Electric Company, and Chrysler Corporation.
This four-passenger coupe weighed 3320 pounds and could travel 120 miles at a constant 30 m.p.h. or approximately 75 miles in stop-and-go driving. The ETV-1 batteries were special 6-volt lead-acid units designed by Globe-Union, with a new plate design extending battery life to 500 recharges compared to the typical 300. The chassis platform housed 18 batteries in a tunnel that provided a long-life 108-volt power pack rechargeable from 110-volt house current.
Chrysler designed the ETV-1's basic chassis using many Omni/Horizon components with custom spring rates and shocks to distribute weight evenly and ensure a comfortable ride with excellent handling. The body was a mix of fiberglass and aluminum panels constructed by Chrysler, with GE's development of abrasion-resistant plastic replacing heavier glass typically used in vehicles. GE also contributed a direct-current motor with transistored choppers for armature and field power control, boasting a 20-hp motor with a top capability of 5000 rpm.
The ETV-1's engine and performance specifications included a General Electric traction motor, with dimensions of 4303 mm in length, 1669 mm in width, 1311 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2489 mm. The vehicle weighed 1778 kg. Please visit www.allcarindex.com for more information on this text.
