How is this kit comparing to Calcars design?
The kit is a simplified and improved vs. Calcars’ in the way it is connected and releases energy. The PHEV battery pack does not connect directly to Prius’ OEM NiMH pack directly. It uses a customized isolated DC/DC converter to control the release of energy to the inverter and OEM NiMH battery. It does charge and assists the stock battery during driving when vehicle is booted up. It does not have the 100 MPG capability of Calcars’ over short ranges and at slower speeds. At higher speeds over 20 miles (2KW)/40 miles (4KW), the Enginer kit is equivalent to Calcars’. The controlled release of energy (constant output current of ~10A and set max voltage range 320V for Prius-I, 240V for Prius-II) results in lower power requirements for all components and longer battery life and reduces cost dramatically. The kit eliminates the need for CAN View or other control circuit boards so that the same design can be ported to other hybrid vehicles like Ford Escape, Fusion or Honda Insight.
