Installed a sizable lithium battery in a Honda Insight, resulting in fuel economy over 100 miles per gallon, augmented by 77 foot-pounds of torque.
In a groundbreaking project, automotive enthusiast Austin Perdue has transformed a first-generation Honda Insight into a torque-rich, lithium-powered vehicle that achieves over 100 miles per gallon (MPG). This DIY electric torque upgrade showcases the potential of modern electric and hybrid technologies for enthusiasts seeking to push the limits of classic compact cars like the Insight.
The heart of the modification involves installing a high-capacity lithium battery and boosting the hybrid system’s electric assist, resulting in a significant torque gain and impressive fuel efficiency. The electric assist adds approximately 24,000 watts, providing +77 ft-lbs of torque from 0 rpm on top of the engine’s output. This enhancement results in a commuter car capable of 0-60 mph acceleration comparable to a B16A CRX and fuel economy in the range of 100-120 mpg.
The upgrade demonstrates a blend of enhanced performance—notably much improved low-end torque thanks to the electric assist—and remarkable efficiency gains due to the hybrid system’s optimization and weight reduction. The DIY nature of this build, completed in about a week, signals a shift toward electrified car customization.
Such DIY electric torque upgrades on traditional hybrids or internal combustion cars foreshadow a broader trend in car modification: increasing adoption of electrification to boost both power delivery and fuel economy without major overhauls of drivetrain configurations. EV conversion kits, for example, facilitate turning classic cars fully electric by replacing engines with electric motors and adding battery packs, extending vehicle life and improving environmental performance.
This DIY approach reshapes the car modification landscape by merging electric technology with classic models like the Honda Insight, offering a promising path for enthusiasts seeking both performance and efficiency gains. Projects like Austin’s highlight the ongoing relevance of older hybrid platforms and open new doors for creative car modding in the electric age.
In summary, the key impacts of DIY electric torque upgrades on the Honda Insight include:
- Substantial torque increase from electric assist (+77 ft-lbs at 0 rpm), improving acceleration and drivability. - Exceptional fuel efficiency (100-120 mpg), making it a practical and economical daily commuter. - Weight reduction, enhancing the power-to-weight ratio and handling. - Feasibility of DIY electric modifications using accessible parts and knowledge, signaling a shift toward electrified car customization. - Future of car modification likely to focus on hybrid upgrades and full EV conversions that improve performance and sustainability without full vehicle replacements.
For those interested in seeing the results of Austin’s work, images can be found on the "Show off your Honda/Acura" public Facebook group. It's worth noting that real-world MPG figures in the 100-120 range are achievable, even with performance gains, when weight and aerodynamics are properly managed.
Austin’s modified Honda Insight is a testament to the potential of older tech surpassing even the latest factory benchmarks with the right know-how and motivation. The car's top speed is comparable to a B16A CRX, and it sheds about 400 pounds compared to a stock VX Insight. This DIY electric torque upgrade fundamentally changes how the car feels and performs, offering an EV-like driving experience while retaining the original engine’s character.
Ryan Patrick Shay's 79cc 4 stroke Phatmoto bike achieves similar MPG as Austin’s electric-enhanced Honda, further demonstrating the potential for high efficiency in various vehicles. The Insight platform remains relevant for budget-minded enthusiasts seeking both fuel savings and character, as projects like Austin’s prove that with the right know-how and motivation, older tech can surpass even the latest factory benchmarks.
- This DIY electric torque upgrade on the Honda Insight, as demonstrated by Austin Perdue, not only increases the car's torque (+77 ft-lbs at 0 rpm) but also improves its fuel efficiency, achieving 100-120 mpg.
- The DIY nature of this project demonstrates the potential for a broader trend in car modification, with electrification being adopted to boost power delivery and fuel economy, signaling a shift towards electrified car customization, such as the use of EV conversion kits.
