Originally Posted by bcspain
Sure! I've built hundreds of tubing benders. The welding jigs would be no real challenge either, once the frame is designed. The electric motors won't be a problem, suitable models are most likely already available. Battery technology is lagging a bit behind, as you already know. The lead acid battery will give you far more run time and current capacity, but the lithium ion will have a much quicker recharge time. Which one to use? Well, that will depend on the cruising range and speed you expect.
As for the design, I'm seeing something resembling a rail-buggy. Is that what you had in mind?
I'm picturing something like
THIS except a little larger, and with an electric motor. Also, it may or may not have pedals... I am assuming that many people still do not want to put much effort into moving themselves, therefore a vehicle like this that requires some pedal input would not sell very well. It would probably have over-the-seat steering, kind of like a Windcheetah, with a throttle built into one of the grips. Brakes would also be located there. It should have a decent-sized storage compartment behind the seat, and over the motor. I expect the max speed to be about 60 km/h. Hmmm, I suppose it might also need a big ol' bar of metal across the front to act as a bumper, too. Hopefully the weight of this thing could be kept under 75 pounds (stupid heavy batteries).