Poll: will it work? Prius as a generator, direct charging of 48V from traction battery

[McKravitts]

Precisely my point. Generator charging is typically at a consistent power level, hence why I compared two generators running at 4kW thus negating duty cycle as a consideration.

Can we conclude that using an inverter on a Prius for low power applications may not be quite as efficient as hauling a generator around but it's OK?

 

[sunshine_eggo]

Can we conclude that using an inverter on a Prius for low power applications may not be quite as efficient as hauling a generator around but it's OK?

My opinion on its use is very clear. My issue has been with the claims that it's going to be more efficient because... you know... Prius.

 

[Consumerbot3418]

Just so I understand, what do you mean?

I was referring to this statement:

It will do it briefly, but you have to cut the throttle and then re-floor it about every 5-10 seconds.

@AntronX seemed to float the idea of hacking the ECU via CAN to get a sustained 16kW output. But if the Toyota guys implemented a time limit on the forced charge like you described, then I don’t think I’d even want to attempt to seek that kind of continuous output. At least, not on an otherwise functional car.

 

[McKravitts]

My opinion on its use is very clear. My issue has been with the claims that it's going to be more efficient because... you know... Prius.

Agree. It's not going to be optiminally efficient, but how many generators are?

 

[AntronX]

I recall reading somewhere that 3rd gen Prius engine is 38% efficient at peak efficiency. Compare that to typically 19% efficient generator.

 

[sunshine_eggo]

I was referring to this statement:


@AntronX seemed to float the idea of hacking the ECU via CAN to get a sustained 16kW output. But if the Toyota guys implemented a time limit on the forced charge like you described, then I don’t think I’d even want to attempt to seek that kind of continuous output. At least, not on an otherwise functional car.

Best to consider the Prius as a 4-5kW generator. That's 96kWh/day or more...

 

[Mason Parsons]

The traction battery can handle up to 250V AC or DC, it might work to directly charge your 48V battery with the Eltek Flatpack2 HE rectifier modules. Just make sure to monitor everything closely, especially the voltage levels, to avoid any mishaps.

 

[TheAlmightyOgreLord]

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