Any word about the Range Extender Patent?

[LightningShow]

+1 for just renting another vehicle for the 1 trip a year it's needed.

It's about flexibility, not cost. If I decide at the last minute I want to go away for the weekend, or re-route and existing trip, then I want to be able to do it. I don't need that capability but I would pay extra for it.

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[DadBald]

So... renting one of these things is going to be easier than renting another vehicle?

Also, if you're taking this on a long trip, chances are you'll be packing for it. My family and I wouldn't have enough payload for a long trip plus a whole engine in the bed. If it's just you going solo then, sure, but it will definitely impact payload.

 

[LightningShow]

I'm not talking about renting a range extender, I'm talking about buying a regular portable generator. A portable generator with sufficient size to act as a range extender will weigh ~250 lbs and take up less than 1/4 of the bed. That still leaves you plenty of payload for packing.

 

[Erik]

Looks like someone installed a generator in the frunk of a Tesla model 3.

https://insideevs.com/reviews/535218/tesla-obrist-runs-on-gasoline/

They didn’t just add a generator though, they also replaced the battery and motors.

 

[RidetheLightning]

2. yes - Heavy...and I don't think ford has a small motor that fits for this use case scenario - hence the rotary engine idea....though Honda might have even better options

The 1.0L Ecoboost from the Fiesta immediately came to mind but it looks like it has been discontinued in the US, don't know if they would consider using it again for this application. Turbo hardware would take up more space & I don't know if it would be the right engine for this application but it's only 213lbs . . .https://www.motorreviewer.com/engine.php?engine_id=131

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