The JonElis was an innovative electric vehicle built on the foundation of the Ford Connect, featuring significant modifications to its original design. The transition from the traditional Ford diesel engine to a cutting-edge electric drivetrain included a three-phase electric motor, which was seamlessly integrated with the vehicle's original gearbox via a coupling system. This design allowed for easy retrofitting of various car models with minimal effort, making it accessible for DIY enthusiasts with basic tools.
The electric motor was managed by a sophisticated control unit that converted DC voltage into three-phase AC power and continuously monitored key parameters via the CAN bus. This unit also enabled regenerative braking, transforming braking energy into electrical energy that was fed back into the traction battery, enhancing efficiency and range. The controller operated at 144V and supported a generator mode for added versatility.
Powering the JonElis was a robust battery pack comprising 45 lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) cells, each with a 100Ah capacity. Connected in series, these batteries delivered a total operating voltage of 144V and provided a range of 80-100 km per charge. LiFePO4 batteries were chosen for their safety, stability, and consistent performance throughout their discharge cycle, minimizing risks and ensuring reliable operation.
The vehicle included a built-in charger capable of fully recharging the battery in 8 hours, making overnight charging convenient for daily use. To maintain battery health and performance, a battery monitoring and management system was employed. Each cell was equipped with a microcontroller that tracked temperature and voltage, balancing the cells during charging to prevent imbalances and extend battery life. Data on battery health, including cell voltage, temperature, internal resistance, and capacity, was displayed on a user-friendly touch-sensitive screen.
This display offered real-time information on energy levels, distance traveled, remaining range, driving speed, engine RPM, battery voltage, and current consumption. Technical personnel benefited from detailed diagnostics and system tuning capabilities, making it easier to troubleshoot and maintain the vehicle.
Economically, the JonElis provided significant savings with an estimated cost of approximately 8 Lt per 100 km, highlighting its lower operational expenses compared to traditional diesel or gasoline vehicles. The electric motor's minimal maintenance requirements further reduced costs, eliminating the need for lubricants and belts and simplifying repairs.
In summary, the JonElis represented a forward-thinking approach to electric vehicle design, combining ease of retrofitting, advanced battery management, and cost-effective operation to offer a practical and eco-friendly driving solution.
