twin/quad electric rzr type go kart?

[justinm001]

forgive my ignorant questions. How possible is it to use a 48v large engine on each wheel and get plenty of power for an offroad sxs type go kart? Or even a pair of engines in tandem just on a rear axle?

I'm thinking about spending about $10-15k on the project, want the max total weight at 1000lbs and have enough juice to ride for an hour.


I want it to be better than a rzr with more power so not sure if electric is an option.

 

[dcastillo]

check this out
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRPE3wZsY9I

theres a part two as well

 

[justinm001]

great video. and good start for me to check out. I'm picking up a cheap 6hp go kart to test with in a couple hours. I think our best plan is using a 3 motor design with large gas engine for rear drive, then using a couple electric engines for front wheels. Interesting to see how it'll feel with different engines.


I'm wondering about using AC 120v or 240v motors and have a few server class UPS laying around so could attempt to use them to power the motors. I believe they're rated at least 1500w each.

 

[Functional Artist]

If it runs on gas, it's an engine. (Internal Combustion Engine)

If it runs on electricity or batteries, it's an electric motor.

The main drawback to an EV (electric vehicle) (especially off road) is the additional weight of the batteries.

*Lithium batteries are a lightweight option but, they are expensive & kinda dangerous if your not very careful.

If you are already running a large gas engine, it seems any additional power gains from electric motors would be lost on the extra weight of the batteries. IMHO

To run 1 large 48 volt motor for an hour would require a lot of batteries.

To run 2 large 48 volt motors, the batteries would probably weigh more than the kart.

I built a dual motor kart. Tons of fun!

Check it out. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRIKLdvGlTA