Vape-powered Car Isn’t Just Blowing Smoke
Summary
A UK innovator has transformed a G-Wiz car into a vape-powered vehicle using 500 disposable vape batteries. While the conversion is simple, safety and charging speed raise eyebrows, showcasing a unique approach to recycling e-waste.
Key Insights
What is a G-Wiz car?
The G-Wiz is a small, low-speed electric city car originally produced in India, known for its compact size and simple electric drivetrain, often used for urban commuting.
How are disposable vape batteries repurposed for vehicle power, and what safety issues arise?
Disposable vape batteries, typically 3.7V lithium-ion cells, are extracted by removing the vaping components, then connected in series and parallel (e.g., soldering tabs together) to form higher-voltage packs suitable for vehicles; however, this raises safety concerns like fire risk from improper balancing, lack of BMS, and fast charging without protection.