Performance Testing of the Vehma G Van Electric Vehicle

This paper presents the results of performance characterization testing of two prototype Vehma G Van electric vehicles (EVs). Testing was performed at the Electrotek Electric Vehicle Test Facility (EVTF) as part of the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI)/Electrotek EV Program. The G Van is a GMC full-sized van converted to electric propulsion by Vehma International of Toronto, Ontario. One of the vans tested at the EVTF was a five-passenger model, the other was a two-seat cargo van. These vehicles utilize tubular-plate lead-acid batteries and dc powertrain system components produced by Chloride EV Systems of Redditch, England. Performance testing was conducted according to the EPRI/Electrotek EV Test Plan and included measurement of driving range at 56 km/h, on the SAE J227a C cycle, and on the Electrotek-defined Urban route. Vehicle top speed, maximum acceleration, dc and ac energy consumption, hill climbing, and braking capabilities also were measured. A series of product-improvement tests then was conducted. These tests compared driving range and energy consumption between the original-equipment passenger van and the same van that was modified by changing tire type, tire pressure, and rear axle type. Additional tests were performed to determine the power consumption and driving range effects of the vehicle's power steering/power brake unit and the air conditioner.