Figured I'd throw an update out there to let everyone know that despite the downturn in the economy we're still heading down range with vehicle development. In fact, it'll be nice to produce something the Big Three say they can't without $33 billion in tax payer money. But hey, we're not big enough to save so we'd better be a hell of a lot smarter and more efficient.
Which brings me to the most recent development with the project. Harkin back to previous emails describing (whining about) the problems associated with running our VW diesel engine autonomously. I'm happy to report that as of last night those problems have been solved lock, stock, and barrel.
As it turns out, the VW computer programmer in Washington state that I've been dealing with knew what he was doing. The man said that after he was done with our application the engine would run just fine. And for $550 total cost we have an engine control computer that will now run the engine no matter what vehicle we install it in. Believe me, this is a steal compared to the $10k racing unit available from Bosche that would accomplish the same thing after months of work developing the correct computer mapping. And don't even get me started on what we pay for military hardware that the manufacturer says will work but doesn't without sinking some serious coin into development work. So, to say that I'm impressed with Mike the computer guy would be a drastic understatement.
Word came back yesterday from my uncle Tom in Denver (our prime machinist) that the mechanical integration of the VW engine and Honda electric motor and transmission will not be a problem. All he needs are a few critical dimensions and he'll be able to design and machine the necessary adapters. Yet another bit of good news.
Furthermore, we're starting to knock the electronic integration problem down to size with the help of Todd Humora and the microcontroller--a technological gem.
Finally, I have identified at least one source in England to bring our vehicle up to EPA Tier II Bin 5 compliance. We're looking at other sources here in the US that may be able to accomplish the same thing. Either way, the guys in England were certain that meeting the emissions standards won't be a problem given modern control techniques.
So, if you've been paying attention things are looking really good at this point. And if you haven't, that's all right. The quick and dirty is that we have nearly everything necessary (the exhaust system being the one major exception although solutions are available) to get our car up and running.
Stay tuned for future developments. Until then, fly it like a rental.
BTW -- Our application to participate in the Automotive X Prize was officially accepted last month. First race should now be in 2010. Still looking to make Bonneville '09.
