Renewable Revolution

DIY Stretchla Project – Tesla Model S to Underpin Stretched Volkswagen Vanagon Body – Battery Evaluation and Removal

 by Eric Loveday

Remember when we first reported on Stretchla, the ambitious DIY project that involves stripping a salvaged Tesla Model S down to its chassis and drivetrain and then slipping that under a stretched Volkswagen Vanagon?

Well, if you missed our initial post on the subject, then we suggest you click here to get caught up.

Strechla is spearheaded by a man named of Otmar.

Since we first presented the story, there have been a few updates.

First, the Tesla Model S arrived:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwr4WuAobAE&feature=player_embedded

The next step in the process was ensuring that the Model S performed as intended.  This step proved to be a time consuming one since much was unknown as to what occured after the donor Model S was wrecked.

As Otmar explains:

“Before I start dismantling the Tesla and transferring parts to the Stretched Vanagon, I want to insure that all the Model S systems are working correctly. The condition of the battery, being the most expensive component in the car, has been of great concern to me. I wasn’t expecting much difficulty in getting it to wake up, charge and drive but things are often not as I expect.

The Tesla is very new, and so far there is precious little public diagnostic information. The simple fact that a pyrotechnic disconnect on the 12V battery controls power to the contactors for the main traction pack was unknown to me, though in retrospect it makes perfect sense.

I do appreciate the fact that doing things the hard way often entails more learning, and I’m certainly learning many obscure details about the Model S!    It’s a good thing I enjoy learning about this sort of thing.” 

This latest update on the Stretchla project is detailed entirely in the video posted below.  Ever wonder what’s involved in removing the Model S battery pack?    Otmar has the answer, but you’ll have to check out the video to find out:



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3sdTS2kiWg&feature=player_embedded
Cafe Electric Strecthla Blog

http://insideevs.com/video-update-diy-stretchla-project-tesla-model-s-to-underpin-stretched-volkswagen-vanagon-body-battery-evaluation-and-removal/