Electric car power requirements?

Question

How much power is needed for an electric engine for a car?

Answer 1

In the US there are minimum power to weight ratios. The main reason fuel economy is so low now is people like big heavy safe vehicles that can still keep up with other traffic.

This guy made a Yugo run on only 8 hp, but it only has a 15 mile range and top speed of 45mph.

Answer 2

I will make a guess.... at least 2 kw

Answer 3

<<No, the 2008 Smart Fortwo is not electric. It's not even a hybrid. It has a traditional gasoline engine. Residing in the trunk is a 1.0-liter inline-3 that produces 70 horsepower and 69 pound-feet of torque.>>

it would seem you need something like 70 hp.

i seriously doubt that they gave it any more hp than necessary.

you could, of course, argue for 5-10-15 more or less, but if i were to guess, i'd guess that you were thinking you'd need considerably less.  and i doubt you were correct.