Welcome!


Welcome to the blog of the University of the South's Eco-Auto Club.

We are exploring a broader definition of 'efficiency' by modifying a used vehicle to be greener, since modifying a vehicle that is already manufactured naturally produces less emissions than purchasing a new product. Our goal is to dramatically increase the fuel efficiency of our 212,000-mile 1998 Ford Explorer (nicknamed "Ewvee") within the constraints of a limited budget.

Through small modifications to aerodynamics, fuel mixture, weight, and vehicle accessories, we plan to improve the ecological integrity of the vehicle and to strengthen the case for EUVs (extended use vehicles). With this project we hope to create a vehicle that can become a model for a University shuttle service and for others -- filling a current need for transportation and simultaneously lowering our carbon footprint.

We hope you enjoy hearing about what we are up to. Feel free to contact us with any questions or ideas you may wish to share.

Monday, June 6, 2011

Without an obvious place to put the Scangauge,
we've begun to modify the center console of ol' Ewvee to better accommodate the Scangauge.


In the Nabit art building we fabricated a cradle (using parts from a local builders' supply) to hold the Scangauge. You can see the removed center console above.



The strange cut seen above was made in order to allow the connection port in the back of the Scangauge to remain uncovered; the majority of the wiring will be hidden in the cavity behind the Scangauge.


The tape here holds the two metal pieces together while the cold weld firms up.

Eventually we will place a cover around the Scangauge's actual display, so it appears more flush with the console.
We have a working Scangauge.
Scangauge has pulled through and provided a model that is modified to work with the Ford Explorer. We can now more accurately determine the MPG.