FB Performance Transmissions in N.Y. has developed automatic transmissions and engineered the related equipment specifically for use in EV applications. They now offer two 3-speed automatic transmissions. These are Ford based transmissions, but can be used in most any rear wheel drive and some 4 wheel drive vehicles.
The valve-bodies in both of these units are designed to retain internal line pressure by eliminating the normal fluid bleed off whenever the electric is turned off. (No need to idle.) This way the automatic transmission can react immediately to the input torque of the electric motor. They both have the strength and durability to handle torque of these motors in conjunction with the typical weight of the vehicles. Yet they provide a smooth transition when shifting from one gear to the next, without the sudden jerking response typically found when using a clutch with stick type transmission.
1) The Heavy Duty AODE is fully automatic with the shift functions controlled by either a programmable controller or a stand alone smart shift controller. This way all of the shift points can be varied and set as desired.
2) The Heavy Duty AO3 (AOD) uses a Full-manual valve body where the driver always has total control over the transmission functions.
Check out their site for more details, pictures and pricing.
Here is updated link as of 10/19/12.http://www.fbperformance.com/Press-Releases-Blog/2011/1/The-Automatic-Solution-for-Electric-Vehicle-EV-Conversions
