I BOUGHT The ELECTRIC Geo Metro *Solectria Force EV*

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 2 ต.ค. 2024
  • Now this is a car I couldn't pass up an electric vehicle from 1996... Before there was even a thought of Tesla, Solectria was building and selling the Force (although not very many of them) with a price tag that was out of this world. It's a complete battery EV with almost every feature you'd expect in a normal car in 96, although it is still a Geo Metro so that's not saying much.
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    #ElectricCar #GeoMetro #Solectria

ความคิดเห็น • 660

  • @uroplatusgecko2773
    @uroplatusgecko2773 ปีที่แล้ว +112

    How is it at towing?

    • @WatchJRGo
      @WatchJRGo  ปีที่แล้ว +52

      LMAO, just had to ask didn’t you? 1 mile range

    • @glassvial
      @glassvial ปีที่แล้ว +24

      Better than Hoovie's Lightning, I'm sure.

    • @paulnota3672
      @paulnota3672 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@WatchJRGo so better than the F150 lightning. Cool.

    • @JohnDoe-zr6bk
      @JohnDoe-zr6bk ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Check out Jerry's test of towing 10.000 pounds with a Rivian. Range is ok, but the range estimate is hilarious....

    • @robertsturtevant6185
      @robertsturtevant6185 ปีที่แล้ว

      😂😂😂

  • @TVsoup
    @TVsoup ปีที่แล้ว +323

    Hello! I’m the previous previous owner of this car and I just wanted to clear some things up for you. The first is those wires in the glove box. This car used to have a “range meter” but I could never get it to work, so I removed it and just shoved the wires in the glove box. The meter used to sit where the cupholder is. Secondly, the terminology for the regen on/off switch refers to the road conditions. If the road is “dry” you want full regen, if the road is “slippery” you want no regen because regen+ice is a big no no. Also, I made a video about this car back when I first bought it, I’ll add a link. I’m so glad to see this car ended up in good hands. Maybe consider doing a lithium conversion at some point? th-cam.com/video/VA3rJ8nJ6ec/w-d-xo.html&feature=shares

    • @99lockerock
      @99lockerock ปีที่แล้ว +25

      I was also a pervious owner of this car and I agree with everything said

    • @kc0lif
      @kc0lif ปีที่แล้ว +3

      not

    • @marhot
      @marhot ปีที่แล้ว +2

      nice job with the detailing ... was wondering how this car was so 'clean' for it's age

    • @Mrshoujo
      @Mrshoujo ปีที่แล้ว +15

      I was never a previous owner and just needed an excuse to post.

    • @RS-cd9cf
      @RS-cd9cf ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I was the original owner and I sold it for a Hum V

  • @tonya9955
    @tonya9955 ปีที่แล้ว +38

    I worked on the GM EV1 (Impact). They used Geo Storms for powertrain mule vehicles, during the development of it. At the time, the chassis was the strongest chassis GM ever built at the time. The chassis was all aluminum. They where building the chassis during a very hot summer in Michigan. They had to weld them together at night, due to the power consumption being so high in the Warren area, with the summer heat. Welding the aluminum at the time required a lot of power. The motors used where turbine starter motors, by Allison. And about 2ft in dia.

  • @Thompson_H
    @Thompson_H ปีที่แล้ว +125

    Never been excited about a Geo before... But you have my attention.

    • @WatchJRGo
      @WatchJRGo  ปีที่แล้ว +29

      I'm WAY more excited about this than my old gas one 💯

    • @louisbabycos106
      @louisbabycos106 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      I used to and still have a soft spot for the geo metro convertibles. Would love to engine swap a Chevy trailblazer's 1.3 turbo 3 cylinder into one .

    • @tangelogee
      @tangelogee ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@louisbabycos106 Imagine an electric Metro Convertible!

    • @gregjavi5934
      @gregjavi5934 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Same here

    • @lancewashington7942
      @lancewashington7942 ปีที่แล้ว

      How can you not love geo they were everywhere ran themselves into the ground and still started also this is exactly what I explain to ppl about Tesla the old ev cars is what blows mind because it's clearly how Elon got the idea he had to have gone through mad blueprints

  • @adamwing9301
    @adamwing9301 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Someone in San Diego is rockin a beautiful EV1, I've seen it for years and remember it at the Saturn dealer back in the day. I was working as a tech at a Saturn dealer and the story I heard was the owner battled GM to purchase out the lease, threatening legal action and GM caved and let him purchase out the lease. He must really enjoy it, because it looks minty and is always arround town.

  • @davidkroth
    @davidkroth ปีที่แล้ว +53

    I got to drive an EV1 in ~2006. The thing I remember the most was the regenerative braking. Turn it off and that small car was HARD to stop.

    • @WatchJRGo
      @WatchJRGo  ปีที่แล้ว +14

      That's amazing! You almost have to have regen to stop all those HEAVY batteries 🔋

    • @snownd675
      @snownd675 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I'd imagine they didn't bother to alter or change the calipers from the original Metro / Swift to keep that small company budget in check

  • @steventiry8701
    @steventiry8701 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    You may be able to adjust the throttle linkage at the potentiometer to get away from the 75% wasted petal. That may also increase the acceleration dysfunction.

    • @hallkbrdz
      @hallkbrdz ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I agree, the cable may be stretched.

    • @phenomanII
      @phenomanII ปีที่แล้ว +1

      That's what I was thinking, hopefully it has a bit more power that is just not available due to the throttle cable.
      It has new batteries, it should outrun a freaking tortoise.

  • @wanee8039
    @wanee8039 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    Fun fact. I worked at GM in a R&D center back then and we had a few of them. Only we also had a couple of Geo storms that were modified with Delphi inverters that could do massive front wheel drive Burnouts. Also they were used to develop the inductive charge system GM was developing during the time they were trying to standardize the charging system. GM called it the MAGNACHARGE. System. That was used for the EV-1's.

  • @brian5o
    @brian5o ปีที่แล้ว +41

    As far as the poor handling, I wonder if some of that could be due to the age of the shocks and struts.
    You might want to consider replacing or even upgrading them if you can. A bet new shocks and struts would make a world of difference as well as the new tires and alignment you mentioned.
    It’s so interesting seeing how this company engineered ways to make accessories designed for gas-powered cars work for an EV.

    • @hojnikb
      @hojnikb ปีที่แล้ว

      There's a chance it uses custom shocks/springs due to weight, so regular geo metro might not work.

    • @Saul_Soto82
      @Saul_Soto82 ปีที่แล้ว

      Needs some coilovers

  • @hojnikb
    @hojnikb ปีที่แล้ว +10

    This would be a perfect candidate for LiFePO4 swap. You might wanna ask @agingwheels if he has a spare pack from his many Coda EVs.
    I'd also look at the potentiometer adjustment if its correct and goes all the way. Might explain why its only working at 3/4 throttle or more.

  • @germineduhon51
    @germineduhon51 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Something wrong when I been anticipating a video about a Geo 😂 but continue 😊

  • @SonyFoLife
    @SonyFoLife ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I will never get over the fact that my elementary school principal had an EV1 back in like 2001, I still remember seeing it pull up in that metallic green looking like nothing else I'd ever seen before. Such a shame I was too young to really appreciate it but that memory sticks. Would absolutely love to see one of those again one day

  • @djditty8012
    @djditty8012 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    That battery disconnect cable looks just like the ones on the forklifts at work! Lol! 😂

  • @Hankola
    @Hankola ปีที่แล้ว

    I test drove an EV1 back in 97. It was at a Saturn dealership. It drove really well from what I remember, and the salesman said you only lease them. Way ahead of its time.

  • @69Dartman
    @69Dartman ปีที่แล้ว +28

    I definitely would check on converting it to lithium batteries like Jake did with his Insight that got wrecked. At least the batteries were replaced recently and sounds like you got a deal on it 👍

    • @WatchJRGo
      @WatchJRGo  ปีที่แล้ว +28

      Got it for the price of the batteries... I don't think I mentioned it but $3,500 🍻

    • @69Dartman
      @69Dartman ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Probably lucky the guy was a fan and decided you'd be a better home for it and he broke even so everyone wins.

    • @timothykeith1367
      @timothykeith1367 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Li-ion bateries would probably make this as good as a 1st gen Leaf, which we can get for $3,500

    • @dazednconfused31337
      @dazednconfused31337 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Would it allow a portable power station to charge it whilst driving?

    • @Chrisb8s
      @Chrisb8s ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@WatchJRGo do it!

  • @billhammon
    @billhammon ปีที่แล้ว +1

    If the throttle controller is just a variable resistor, try some contact cleaner to see if the throttle response improves!

  • @kerrylewis2581
    @kerrylewis2581 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    I always enjoy a JR episode when Jake is involved.

  • @paulcox2009
    @paulcox2009 ปีที่แล้ว

    When I lived in Bartlesville Oklahoma just south of you my neighbor had one except his was turquoise. He loved it

  • @collincapturescars
    @collincapturescars ปีที่แล้ว

    To help you find a GM EV1 there is one on display at the Virginia Museum of Transportation in Roanoke, Virginia.

  • @born_again_torinos
    @born_again_torinos ปีที่แล้ว +16

    My brand new 97 Geo Metro 2-door with the 3 banger 1 barrel got 50 MPG if I drove it like I stole it. If I drove normally I'd get about 55 MPG. If I hypermiled it I could get over 60 MPG. Even though it had a pretty small gas tank. It felt like it would drive forever on a tank of gas.

    • @mjc8248
      @mjc8248 ปีที่แล้ว

      That's why making one an ev makes no sense to me. I drove several of these when they were new and the gas mileage was phenomenal. It doesn't really make sense to make a worse car and charge so much for it.

    • @born_again_torinos
      @born_again_torinos ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@mjc8248 I have an old friend who has the metro convertible with the "big block" 8^) 4 banger. He made skirts for it and an air dam and I think a few other tricks and hypermiles it to see just how good he can make the gas milage. He even drafts big rigs for less drag. I believe he told me he got in the mid 70s MPG with it.

    • @mjc8248
      @mjc8248 ปีที่แล้ว

      I always loved the convertibles. I had a pink with a white top that I kept for a long time because of the fuel mileage. I liked the hatches and verts the best. They weren't very fast but they were nimble for day to day driving.

    • @mattg7952
      @mattg7952 ปีที่แล้ว

      I think the other comments to your comment would tell you why someone would want to make the car even quirkier than “just” gas powered

  • @ronaldwarren5220
    @ronaldwarren5220 ปีที่แล้ว

    The electric car museum in downtown Kingman, Arizona has one of the GM electric vehicles that you were talking about.

  • @jamesworden4129
    @jamesworden4129 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

    JR & Jake, fun video. Nice praise and lots of digs. The Force came out in 1991 as the hatch then 1995 as a sedan. It was by far the most efficient and most advanced EV being sold at the time. Competitors were building series wound DC motor cars with 4-speed stick, no regen, no heat, no A/C except GM EV1 that was never even sold. The Force was more efficient than EV1 on a Wh/mi basis. Is it a great EV by today’s standards? No, of course not, it’s 28 years old. Your vacuum pump is out or more likely the vacuum switch or wiring. Power brakes were standard in 1995 Force. Your batteries are old and weak and don’t look OEM, which was 13 East Penn GelTec group 27 gel at 832lb total. A fresh pack would get 50Ah. I have 350lb of Li pack in my Force and does 180 miles is way more peppy and fun, handles a little better although nothing to write home about of course. Check your struts for shock action, definitely do a precision alignment when you have final batteries in it. I bet that’ll help efficiency. Good tires at 45 psi will help.
    I have a Force, 375 mile Sunrise GT, E-10 pickup and Tesla M3 and drive all of them, like them all. Love to hear and see what you fix & restore on your Force.

    • @jamesworden4129
      @jamesworden4129 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Follow the brake hoses & wiring to find pump, vac switch (on ball or front cross member above A/C condenser). Best if you find the Solectria service manual

  • @robertsturtevant6185
    @robertsturtevant6185 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    There’s a new shirt for either you or Jake…..”My Reverb’s not wet enough!”😂😂😂

  • @bluerazor7049
    @bluerazor7049 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I am surprised that they made an EV Metro, these were sold here in Europe as the Suzuki Swift/Alto. Alongside it the Tracker was also sold as the Vitara! I hope you find the Geo Storm one day, that's such a cool little car-

  • @CurtisGauger
    @CurtisGauger ปีที่แล้ว +13

    I believe they marked it dry and slippery due to road conditions. If regen is engaged and the the roads were slick, it could lock up the wheels and cause you to lose control. Basically their way of saying, don't use regen in slick conditions. Very interesting car for sure!

    • @auzmo
      @auzmo ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thats what i thought - dry and slippery driving conditions. I dont know the mechanics of why though because someone else said its hard to stop without regen as an engine brake. But i wonder if in slippery conditions they dont want you doing single pedal and then get in a bad spot, they want you to use the brake pedal earlier.

  • @thagerdorn2009
    @thagerdorn2009 ปีที่แล้ว

    The 1996 Metro was a 1.3L 4 cylinder if memory serves me right. Had a customer at O'Reilly that drove one, had a 96 and a 97. The first gen ones had 3 cylinders.

  • @Dreamspade1
    @Dreamspade1 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Weird and cool car - also gotta love Jake with the sound-tech wet/dry mix reference! :)

  • @davedelarosa319
    @davedelarosa319 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    For those who are interested in them, there used to be an EV-1 on display at the Tellus Museum in Cartersville Georgia. I haven't been in a while, and the Savoy Automotive Museum opened recently down the road from it, so the car may heve been moved. But if anyone wants to see a rare piece of American experimentalism, there's one floating around SE US.

  • @dewdew34
    @dewdew34 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    What's with all the Amazon bots shitposting here...AM2023X blah blah. WTF

  • @kcbeerslinger
    @kcbeerslinger ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I wonder how this car would do with a lithium battery pack. And also could a bigger motor be installed for more power? I think I saw an article in an old Trucking' magazine a long time ago about the S-10 conversion. I'm sure Rich Rebuilds would love to see this car. I bet if you get the front end fixed and alinged, power steering working and the AC compressor fixed, this would probably be a lot easier to drive. Too bad the 3 cyl. cars rusted out so bad or there would probably be a lot more around.

    • @hojnikb
      @hojnikb ปีที่แล้ว

      bigger motor would likely require more powerful inverter as well. And you might run into issue of power capability of exisiting batteries as well. So if you want more power, you'ill end up swapping the whole drivetrain+batteries.

    • @marsgal42
      @marsgal42 ปีที่แล้ว

      I saw one of these at an EV show that had been converted to lithium ion batteries. The owner said it doubled the range.

  • @ChevyCitation
    @ChevyCitation ปีที่แล้ว +2

    JR should see if Rich Rebuilds would be interested in that EV Car

  • @jimcabezola3051
    @jimcabezola3051 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Like you, I loved the GM EV-1. I lived in Phoenix, and we had a couple of those cars rolling around there. The old Fiesta Mall in Tempe even had the paddle connectors meant to charge these EV-1s. I thought the EV-1 was the PERFECT car for me; my car at the time was a Honda CRX. The EV-1 seemed like an electric CRX in my fevered imagination. I would love my own EV-1 even now. Back in the 2000-2010 decade, the military had fuel-cell powered Chevy SUVs. Out at Pearl Harbor, the Navy was cracking sea water into hydrogen and oxygen using solar. Also using solar power, this hydrogen was processed into liquid hydrogen and used in these promotional/test Chevys by the military. I miss seeing those vehicles; they had LOUD wraps that let the whole world what they were! Also, Toyota showed their MIrai here on O’ahu. These MIrais could actually be filled at Pearl Harbor, for all I know. Never saw a hydrogen-powered Kia eNiro or a Toyota MIrai running around here, though.

    • @marcusdamberger
      @marcusdamberger ปีที่แล้ว

      @Davey I just saw a second generation 2 door Cavalier RS in Los Vegas while going to CES. It was parked in same hotel garage I was in, it was in remarkable shape, no rust, no faded paint, no door dings. I'm guessing it was either garage kept most of it's life, as out west that paint would fade under the sun. Or it had a really good paint job, but who would intend on painting a mid-90's Cavalier?
      It had a spare donut tire on the back wheel while I saw it. But the rest of the wheels were original with their wheel covers in good condition. A few days later I also had to use my spare tire, so I can't blame them for rolling around on a spare. But it would have been nice to see a complete set. I just hope they knew what they had, a rather rare to see Cavalier today from the 90's. That most didn't get much older than 10 years before being taken off the roadways. A cheap throw away 90's GM car never intended to last.

  • @beforebefore
    @beforebefore ปีที่แล้ว +2

    If you consider changing the 11 12v batteries (not 5 front +12 rear, but probably 5+6 for 149v nom, 156v fully charged) for something better/newer/lighter, look at lithium iron phosphate batteries, also known as LiFePo4. These batteries are lithium-based, so they're very light compared to lead-acid batteries, but because of the 3.2v cell voltage they make a perfect conversion from lead acid to lithium technology... 4 cells of LiFePo4 are the same voltage as a 12v lead acid. They are also very tolerant of charging voltages, and are much, much safer than standard lithium batteries. Just make sure to use good brand cells.
    There are also manufacturers that make LiFePo4 direct drop-in replacement automotive, marine, and deep cycle 12v batteries... with all kinds of posts/terminals for zero conversion effort.
    It would probably take 400-500 pounds off of the car.
    You may even get one of them to sponsor a conversion project video....

  • @cousinjohncarstuff4568
    @cousinjohncarstuff4568 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Send it to Rich for lithium battery swap? Would be great content! Be prepared for insane get up and go! Then, document the drive back home. I doubt anyone has documented a lithium powered Geo road trip.....

  • @Symbiiotic
    @Symbiiotic ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I would absolutely love a series on updating this car for no reason.

  • @mikeluscher159
    @mikeluscher159 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I found the vehicle test report from the US Dept of Energy, they had a '95 Force on test
    TEST NOTES:
    1. Full charge may not occur when charging in ambient temperatures of >100°F
    2. To charge in less than 12 hour, charging should occur in ambient temperatures

    • @Legoman585
      @Legoman585 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      So Funny. 4. The vehicle cannot be parked or operated in standing water with a depth greater than six
      (6) inches.

  • @beforebefore
    @beforebefore ปีที่แล้ว +2

    You might try to adjust the throttle position sensor... if it takes so much throttle pedal travel to even start moving the car, you may be losing the top end power too... maybe why it's so sluggish.

  • @mjjr1000
    @mjjr1000 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wasn’t expecting to see a vlog under recent circumstances but I’m super happy to watch, I would do a conversation to extend it’s distance and life in the new world it was designed for.
    Hope your dad and family are coping well.
    See you next time. 👌🏻👍🏻

  • @fomocopowersgarage7103
    @fomocopowersgarage7103 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I remember seeing the S10 when you came to Chicago. That thing was pretty cool. You should have seen the electric Dodge cargo van I had a couple years ago.

  • @silverstreak1001
    @silverstreak1001 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    This is the kinda stuff I love out of JR. Relatable and interesting. This is gunna be a cool series

  • @FarrellMcGovern
    @FarrellMcGovern ปีที่แล้ว +9

    You should get one of those "solar generators", basically, a large lithium battery with an inverter, and patch it into the 120v charging circuit and see if you can increase the range on the car using it!!

    • @scottcol23
      @scottcol23 ปีที่แล้ว

      that would not do much. Those solar generators are about 1500w -2000w inverters with a 45 amp hour battery. just one of those lead acid batteries in the metro is at least a 80 amp hour. You would have to trickle charge it while off. It would charge it though.

  • @gregdiamond6023
    @gregdiamond6023 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I had a geo metro. Send worst car I ever owned. Worst car I owned was a yugo. 😂

  • @mylifethaidiy7045
    @mylifethaidiy7045 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I saw a guy that bought a newer Nissan Leaf for $3500. The battery is getting older, so it only charges to 60% now. He can only drive 52 miles, before the battery is completely dead.

  • @alexjasonchandler
    @alexjasonchandler ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Man, would love to see a conversion to lithium on one of these, it would reduce so much weight going from all those lead acids to just (4) 12v lithium batteries. And give it about 2,000-2,500AH. I bought (4) 12v li-po batteries off of Alibaba in (16) 3V cells with bus bars, to make them into 12v packs, for the solar on my camper. Spent around $1,500. It's actually a shame he replaced the lead acids, could have done lithium with a new charger, for close to the same spend or even cheaper than on the lead acid batteries.

  • @pablopicaro7649
    @pablopicaro7649 ปีที่แล้ว

    Late 90s california had legislation that some percent of car sales must be EV (zero emission) so Ford, GM, Nissan, some other made EV test fleet. the oil and Car Companies Got the CA legislature to turn over the law, so ALL the EV where recalled (some still live in wild like Ranger EV)

  • @toolzshed
    @toolzshed ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Oh man the EV-1 was cool, I used to have a Popular Mechanics magazine with an Article about it

    • @WatchJRGo
      @WatchJRGo  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      One of the most innovative cars of our time for sure 🔥

  • @RobFromRI
    @RobFromRI ปีที่แล้ว

    this video could also be posted on your Tech Throwback channel

  • @suntiva1986
    @suntiva1986 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    How cool would it be for Doug Demuro to review this.

  • @davidlavalle7583
    @davidlavalle7583 ปีที่แล้ว

    With the right set of lithium ion batterys you could really extend the range and performance the weight saving alone would be worth the money

  • @techguy3424
    @techguy3424 ปีที่แล้ว

    Geo had such cool little economy cars, especially love the Tracker.

  • @michaelreynolds1904
    @michaelreynolds1904 ปีที่แล้ว

    Did you ever see the Solectria Sunrise concept? Very GM EV1 inspired.

  • @anzicek
    @anzicek ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I still have a Force that I regularly drive, I have put 60k on it and I have done two lithium conversions on it. Currently running half of a Nissan leaf 40kWh pack. I can share info if you are ever interested. I have service manuals, spare parts etc... As well as a bunch of info about the conversions. The car is much faster with lithium due to weight savings. I worked with Solectria in the 90's on NiMh versions of the car.

  • @1XSTEALTHTWINTURBOX1
    @1XSTEALTHTWINTURBOX1 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I'd like to see the suspension fixed, aligned and refreshed.
    Adjust the pedal so it's more active and you don't have to floor the pedal. Shouldn't be too hard.
    And probably a battery upgrade.

  • @sleepyhollow783
    @sleepyhollow783 ปีที่แล้ว

    So glad you traded that boring McLaren for this Metro instead of the Rally Fighter!😏 Bold & innovative move, blending the tech & car channels. Collaboration with oneself. Very efficient.

  • @trr5291
    @trr5291 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    My uncle had a gas Geo Metro. His was green. He was a tall and wide man. He barely fit but he didn't care because he was saving gas money.

  • @pablopicaro7649
    @pablopicaro7649 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    2:00 about 1998 Saw couple of EV1 in San Jose area. And At the Fry's (or some electronics store) at front of parking lot they had free EV chargers with the Paddle Puck thing for FREE EV charging.

  • @Coker-Time
    @Coker-Time ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Ok so you need to upgrade to lithium battery’s. Put better shocks and springs for handling. Upgrade all the lights to LED. And put a cheap Car Play radio with a backup cam.

  • @itsnotme07
    @itsnotme07 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I'd heard of Solectria before, since I'm from the Boston area...but had no idea they converted Geo Metro's/S10's. Hilarious!

  • @StevesWanderlust
    @StevesWanderlust ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The contrarian I am believes this has all the features that I want in an EV but can't get new these days: switches, analog gauges, crank windows, cassette deck. And I'm not being ironic or sarcastic: I really want a low tech EV

  • @AndyZ325is
    @AndyZ325is ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I wonder what kind of profit margins Solectria made on these? The optional volt meter made some profit for them, that's for sure. Battle Born Li-Ion would be a cool upgrade. Looks like Deka Marine Deep Cycles in there now which are a good battery. Have fun with it!

    • @hojnikb
      @hojnikb ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I'd say they made a decent penny on these. Gliders likely cost them half of the retail price of a metro or 3/4 at the most. Batteries can be expensive but not that expensive since those were lead acid; a proven tech even back in 90s.
      Also lets not forget ZEV credits they got for every car sold.
      My guess is that these were designed for goverment use first and sold to the public as well. It was way too expensive to just be a retail car people would buy.

  • @Llamathellegend
    @Llamathellegend ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Crazy how GM is making 3 cylinder cars again too, full circle.

    • @louisbabycos106
      @louisbabycos106 ปีที่แล้ว

      I wouldn't mind a Geo metro convertible with a trailblazer 1.3 engine swap.

  • @Legoman585
    @Legoman585 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Dude one of the coolest car's you've had on your channel. I never knew they even existed before your first video on it. You have to lithium swap it.

  • @fredjones9424
    @fredjones9424 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    C'mon JR quit talking how the companies who bought this POS had free energy! How much did it cost to produce and generate these energy free cars. That's a huge lie the EV fans continue to promote and ,ie about these things

  • @FreezyAbitKT7A
    @FreezyAbitKT7A ปีที่แล้ว +1

    E-Brake? Which one do you use when you Park on a hill? Look in the index of that owners manual and see if you can find an Emergency Brake

  • @toddchafin5293
    @toddchafin5293 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I driven a EV1. Gm was doing demonstrations of its vehicles versus the competition. They played up it was faster 0 to 30 than a corvette in 98.

  • @colinshrom3704
    @colinshrom3704 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Something like this would be amazing for me in a small town while I save for college

  • @DrRick-dq4bb
    @DrRick-dq4bb ปีที่แล้ว +1

    1000 cycles at only 40 miles per charge would mean those batteries would already be toast. Perhaps the batteries have been replaced already since it has over 42K miles.

  • @installwebercarburetorsona6159
    @installwebercarburetorsona6159 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Full resto and lithium swap. It’s an interesting artifact.

  • @JoshuaBrown-is8fb
    @JoshuaBrown-is8fb ปีที่แล้ว +1

    WatchJrgo neighbors must think he’s insane driving a mclaren one month then has a geo the next.

  • @houseofno
    @houseofno ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Just an FYI, Jehu Garcia has an EV battery channel with lots of amazing battery technologies. I'd love to see this car get upgraded from the primitive lead acid battery technology to one of the newer technologies (less weight, more energy, more range). No idea if those old school, twenty six year old electric motors can handle the increased outputs from newer technology batteries.

  • @Shawnbfromsd
    @Shawnbfromsd ปีที่แล้ว +3

    This car needs someone who's willing to put a lot of money into it.

  • @curtiscarpenter9154
    @curtiscarpenter9154 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I imagine 100% Jake loves the car too. I'm really sorry you lost your grandfather to

  • @pops55650
    @pops55650 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Well it’s no Insight, but maybe you could still swap in some lithium batteries and associated battery electronics

  • @alexandrecouture2462
    @alexandrecouture2462 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nice little car! I really liked these little cars of the 90s.

  • @TheOldMachines
    @TheOldMachines ปีที่แล้ว +3

    One of your coolest cars. I love pre modern era industrial-ness of the design and operation. It's basically a forklift on the road

  • @AlexEVRepair
    @AlexEVRepair ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Apart from the GM EV1, all the other major auto manufacturers had EVs in the late 90s as well, as was mandated at the time by the California Air Resources Board. There was the Ford Ranger EV, Toyota RAV4 EV (1st gen, not to be confused with the Tesla powered 2nd gen), Chrysler TEVan, Honda EV+, and Nissan Rnessa. Much like the EV1, most of those vehicles were all crushed in 2003/2004 when the EV mandate was repealed after the automakers put a lot of pressure on CARB. If you ever want to learn more about that period of EV history, I highly recommend checking out the documentary called "Who Killed the Electric Car" (theres also a sequel called "Revenge of the Electric Car", which focuses on the early days of Tesla, and the grassroots EV conversion movement).
    Back to the subject of those latest 90s/early 00s cars, about 400 each of the Rangers and RAV4s were saved from the crusher after a lot of pushback from owners, so there's still a fair number of those floating around. I actually used to own 2 Rangers myself, and have a couple videos about them. I've also worked on one of the first gen RAV4s as well at the shop where I work (there's a video of that car as well where we compared it to a 2nd gen RAV4 EV on my shop's youtube channel).
    A couple years ago, I actually almost bought an early Solectria Force myself (the two door hatch version) which was in need of batteries. I'd say that if you're up for it, a lithium swap would make a MASSIVE improvement to the car. Not only would you increase your range, but you'd likely get a lot better performance thanks to reduced weight and A LOT less voltage sag under acceleration.

  • @paulrak
    @paulrak ปีที่แล้ว +1

    How about a lithium battery upgrade, led headlights and change the throttle pot..?

  • @scottiebsc
    @scottiebsc ปีที่แล้ว

    The perfect parts run car to take to O'reiley's.

  • @MrChevyman962000
    @MrChevyman962000 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Nothing like gutting a true 50mpg gas car, and making it a 60mi range ev...

  • @mikemontgomery7337
    @mikemontgomery7337 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    JR you need to find a Renault Fuego !! Those were a classic. Owned one in 1984 !! You could have an entire series on that one !!!

  • @ArnaudShanghai
    @ArnaudShanghai ปีที่แล้ว

    I like that you really stick to the spirit of your channel and keep buying shit-boxes. That so much more entertaining. Tavarish or Hoovies they lost themselves, I stopped a long time ago to follow them.

  • @JimFlanagan4206
    @JimFlanagan4206 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Swap over all the lighting to LED to save a little juice. Cool little car! I don't even remember seeing the Metro sedan, only the little hatchback.

  • @Leon-uj7pc
    @Leon-uj7pc ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Something is wrong with the throttle. It should not take pushing the pedal 75% down to get it to move. If i remember correctly from driving those ones that were brought to the dealership i worked at for brakes and suspension work, these did not take much pedal pressure to move them from stop. Check the throttle cable for correct adjustment. Also check the potentiometer for the throttle for dirty contacts or cracks

  • @curiousumscientia3648
    @curiousumscientia3648 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    Drove the EV1 when they were leasing them (~1998) and just recall quick range loss driving up steep mountain but also the quick recovery of charge coming back down. Had a futuristic dash. I have seen them again at the Peterson Museum is Los Angeles and also the Henry Ford Museum in Detroit. Good luck on the Metro. Recall driving a gas one (think 3 cylinder engine) as a rental and got a laugh out of it as the seat was made for someone 6ft tall. I’m short and had to pad the seat to get the height I wanted to see.

    • @curiousumscientia3648
      @curiousumscientia3648 ปีที่แล้ว

      @Davey I live in AZ and maybe once a year will see one. What I do see a lot of are PT Cruisers. It’s like these things are invincible (cockroaches of the car world), they still even have good paint when other cars have completely failed due to the desert sun.

    • @curiousumscientia3648
      @curiousumscientia3648 ปีที่แล้ว

      @Davey rarely see cavaliers. A college friend had one back in early 90s. Was station wagon version and stick shift.I had a 1990 civic si which I loved. Don’t see these either anymore

    • @marcusdamberger
      @marcusdamberger ปีที่แล้ว

      @@curiousumscientia3648 You are correct! Cock roaches they are. I ended up with a PT Cruiser (when my 98' Honda accord with 266k tranny died and the engine developed a massive oil leak) when a work colleague inherited one from his sister in law who passed away. He kept it for about a year, and decided having 4 vehicles was enough and sold it to me for the cost of state title transfer. i.e we went into DMV and I payed all the fees, and he handed me the keys. It's a base model, 5 speed, with A/C, cruse, and auto down windows, but nothing else. No power doors or mirrors.. I will say the paint has faded, (dark blue) mostly because it's spent it's entire life in New Mexico after a brief stint in California. It had only 100k on the clock when I got it in 2019 and was a 2002, so it was rathe low mileage for it's age. Still runs and drives remarkably well, the 5 speed will probably never let it down, it will most likely be the engine that fails in the end. It's had the water pump replaced three times, I had to do that last year, seems to last only about 36k then leaks water and get's bad quickly.. Seems to be flaw in the design.

  • @louisbabycos106
    @louisbabycos106 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I wouldn't mind a Geo metro convertible with an engine swap from the trailblazers 1.3 turbo 3 cylinder.

  • @Bodie2020
    @Bodie2020 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Put some modern deep cycle lead acid in it and enjoy. You gained a sub from this car.

  • @jeremysomeone
    @jeremysomeone ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Aging Wheels is probably salivating at the mouth.

  • @paulnota3672
    @paulnota3672 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I really want you to take this thing to the wizard. I just need to see his reaction.

  • @Bird_Brain_Dave
    @Bird_Brain_Dave ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The geo seems to have the same battery range as the ford lightning 🤣

  • @YesThatReallyDidHappen
    @YesThatReallyDidHappen ปีที่แล้ว

    You might have some luck finding a Chevrolet S-10 Electric it used all the EV1 components and quite a few of them ended up in private hands because they were sold to fleets.

  • @died4us590
    @died4us590 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Now you got me feeling bad for Jake, he needs this car!!!!!!!!!

  • @brians8664
    @brians8664 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Lithium swap that thing! See what the voltage range of the controller is. You might be able to get some more power out of the motor with higher voltage.
    You could also Leaf-swap it

  • @VanisleNSX
    @VanisleNSX ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Check out the 2006 movie "Who killed the electric car?". It's a great movie that explains and shows the demise of the EV1.

  • @MrJwc1234
    @MrJwc1234 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You need to put Lipo batteries on it for sure. New tires, alignment, and fix that sagging headliner.

  • @etscrapping9923
    @etscrapping9923 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Been waiting for this video. Would be a great car for me to drive back and forth to work. I'm only 8 miles from work.

    • @mylifethaidiy7045
      @mylifethaidiy7045 ปีที่แล้ว

      It only has a 10 mile range. you would not be able to get back home. :(

  • @kristiandawe85
    @kristiandawe85 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I would love to see it with a lithium ion battery upgrade

  • @vaibhavdlv
    @vaibhavdlv ปีที่แล้ว +12

    The EV is a sight to behold. These guys just put together an EV with whatever tech they had. And they made it work to the best. Kudos to them. I remember about 12 years back in my first job trying to get a portable serial-printer to work. It was real pain in the behind! Anyway as usual JR will fix a bunch of stuff and just make this better! Cheers!

  • @danshadoin7661
    @danshadoin7661 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This car is only one wheel better than that three-wheeled death trap you recorded a few months ago. It was painful to watch you demo that car. Anyone who loves those cars would be ecstatic about a new 48 volt Club Car.

    • @danshadoin7661
      @danshadoin7661 ปีที่แล้ว

      But if you are going to increase responsiveness and speed, be sure to go through and check for surface corrosion on your throttle control to see if you are having a resistance problem that is only overcome by increasing amperage.

  • @adamn7516
    @adamn7516 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You should do a lithium battery swap.

  • @jritechnology
    @jritechnology ปีที่แล้ว +2

    JR: "I'm REALLY EXCITED TO OWN THIS!"
    Also JR: "I sold it, because I need to make room for the Volt".

    • @WatchJRGo
      @WatchJRGo  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yeah the Volt is actually a good car so that happens a lot 😂