The DIY EV conversion of the 1962 Mercury Comet station wagon is a true testament to the fact that electric car conversions don’t have to break the bank. While most conversion specialists focus on the luxury market and charge exorbitant amounts for their services, this project proves that it can be done affordably and effectively.
The project began with a dead Mercury Comet station wagon and a wrecked 2014 Nissan Leaf. The Leaf provided all the necessary high-voltage components, including the battery pack, inverter, and electric motor. The goal of the project was to complete the conversion for less than $6,000, excluding the cost of the car itself. And remarkably, this goal was achieved with some creative thinking and a lot of hard work.
The key components of the conversion included the Resolve EV controller, which enabled communication with the original Nissan high-voltage parts, and various other parts like metal tubing and leaf springs. The Leaf’s electric motor was mounted on the rear axle of the Comet, requiring some fabrication work to make it fit. The original battery modules were disassembled and reconfigured to fit under the hood of the car.
During the process, there were some challenges to overcome, such as troubleshooting why the wheels wouldn’t turn initially. It was discovered that the high-voltage cables’ terminals were inverted, leading to the on-board charger failing. After some trial and error, the issue was resolved, and the car was up and running.
The finishing touches included installing a J1772 AC charging port where the fuel filler used to be, and placing the custom controller in the glovebox for easy access. The end result is a clean and functional EV conversion that retains the classic look of the Mercury Comet station wagon.
With an estimated driving range of up to 78 miles on a full charge, this DIY EV conversion proves that it is possible to enjoy the thrills of a classic car without the drawbacks of a gas-powered engine. And with more used EVs available for parts, there are plenty of opportunities for those looking to embark on their own electric car conversion projects. The world of technology is constantly evolving, with new innovations being introduced every day. One of the most exciting developments in recent years has been the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize industries across the board, from healthcare to finance to transportation.
AI and machine learning are often used interchangeably, but they are actually two distinct technologies. AI refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines, enabling them to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making, and language translation. Machine learning, on the other hand, is a subset of AI that focuses on the development of algorithms that allow computers to learn from and make predictions or decisions based on data.
The applications of AI and machine learning are vast and varied. In healthcare, AI is being used to analyze medical images, predict patient outcomes, and assist in drug discovery. In finance, machine learning algorithms are being used to detect fraud, optimize trading strategies, and provide personalized investment advice. In transportation, AI is being used to develop autonomous vehicles that can navigate roads safely and efficiently.
One of the key advantages of AI and machine learning is their ability to process and analyze vast amounts of data at speeds that far surpass human capabilities. This has implications for businesses looking to gain insights from their data and make data-driven decisions. By leveraging AI and machine learning technologies, organizations can uncover patterns and trends in their data that may have otherwise gone unnoticed, leading to more informed decision-making and improved business outcomes.
However, the rise of AI and machine learning also raises important ethical considerations. As these technologies become more advanced and integrated into our daily lives, questions arise about privacy, security, and bias. For example, AI algorithms may inadvertently perpetuate biases present in the data they are trained on, leading to discriminatory outcomes. It is crucial for developers and organizations to prioritize transparency and fairness in the development and deployment of AI and machine learning technologies.
Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of AI and machine learning are undeniable. As these technologies continue to advance, they have the power to transform industries, drive innovation, and improve our lives in ways we have yet to imagine. It is up to us as a society to navigate the evolving landscape of AI and machine learning with care and responsibility, ensuring that these technologies are used for the greater good.