At the beginning of 2005 we were approached by the U.S. Postal Service to power their small delivery vans. Our calculations showed that with relatively minor modifications an e-Traction powered version could comfortably: 

1.      operate a U.S.P.S. delivery van,

2.      with a single direct drive SM350/1AL unit with a side mounted differential,

3.      using on average 3.1 kW per hour,

4.      with only eight 100 Ah Lithium-Ion batteries,

5.      for an entire workday,

6.      with an average speed (when in motion) of 20 MPH,

7.      with a maximum speed of 55 MPH,

8.      at a total distance covered of 80 miles,

9.      and an overall vehicle weight of 3,334 lbs*,

10.   including one driver of 200 lbs,

11.   and including 250 lbs of mail.

* Based on an empty vehicle weight of 3,050 lbs. Estimated weight loss in conversion: traction motor 270 lbs, transmission 175 lbs, and differential 175 lbs. Estimated weight gain in conversion: SM350/1AL 187 lbs, batteries 220 lbs, and onboard charger 22 lbs. 

The cost of recharging these batteries with cheap electricity from the power grid can hardly be compared to the ever rising cost of fossil fuel. Our SM350/1AL has been designed for 600,000 miles between overhauls. The Lithium-Ion batteries will last at least 2,000 complete cycles or roughly 8 years.