Question on Charging GEM electric vehicle?

Question

Our work recently purchased a GEM vehicle and after receiving the car we found that you can not charge it in sun light, on asphalt or concrete. This fact was not published in the sales literature; it was buried deep in the owner’s manual. Now in light of the fire caused buy one in California we might have to rid of the vehicle unless we can figure out a way to safely charge it. We use it at night so it must be charged during the day our parking lot has no shade, we have no indoor facility to charge it. We currently are charging it in the grass but it is against the law and our boss said we have to find a legal way to safely charge it or get rid of the vehicle. I would like any ideas on ways to fix this problem so we can keep this eco friendly car. We do have the Gel batteries already so they are a little safer is what we were told by the company. Thank you for any help.

Answer 1

You could try putting down some sort of insulation pad on the asphalt so it wouldn't be so hot directly underneath the vehicle.

Answer 2

Eco friendly? Maybe for you, but what about the people near the power plant that makes the power for your charger? It is ok if that power comes from Nuclear or other non air polluting power.

Answer 3

I'd be contacting global electric motors.  Here is the link They will know exactly what the problem is and the best control methods.

http://www.gemcar.com/models/details.asp...

The problem probably has something to do with excess heat or poor ventilation. There should be a relatively easy solution. I could speculate with off cut carpet under it, one of those portable shade cloth covering for over the top and better ventilation, but your best course of action is to contact the manufacturer.

If you have to get rid of it could I suggest a small fleet of these as a replacement.

http://www.davesbikes.com/adult_trad1_.g...

You can get an electric assist kit for them  with similar range to the car.

Answer 4

try putting something on the ground to keep it from the heat (the heat would be the hazard im assuming) cardboard, yoga mats, a blanket, anything really.

as for keeping it in the shade i would suggest buying some sort of EZ-UP tent or something to keep it out of the sun, maybe one of those collapsible carports

Don't spend too much money on it, just use whatever you can find. And good luck with this!! You are doing a great thing for the environment! :)