Was thinking same. Would almost have to in order to reach components nearest the bed/trunk floor. If they go with an inline vs a boxer, wonder if they'll flip it on its side like the older BMW K bikes to minimize vertical height of the entire unit. But if the overall dimensions are roughly the same for assembled height and width may not be necessary.
Great point, my son overlands his Tacoma, has the shelving/drawer system installed and you're right, removing that to access the panel out in the field is borderline non-feasible. Didn't even consider that. But, maybe the panel is there just for medium/major repair access and not routine maintenance? I don't know. I'd hate the idea of having to drop the engine to do anything but basic routine maintenance.
Interesting, and not surprising either. Would have preferred a larger displacement NA four cylinder, but I trust the engineers know what they're doing. But, given the relatively low output, there will need to be a LARGE hybrid battery capacity buffer for performance specs to be maintained when the engine is needed. And maintaining those specs won't be possible when the battery is totally depleted.
Can this engine be mounted horizontally?
Based on what they’re saying, this is going to be pretty much the only EV that you can tinker with. I really think they’re going to make dropping the whole motor subframe pretty easy.
That would be need to be done with an integrated movable mounting system to lower the engine without external lifts, stands or support of any kind. All the lines, harnesses, external connections of any kind would need enough slack built into them to allow the range of motion needed by the mounting system. Sounds like a tall order, but if they pull that off, would be very unique and innovative. An "engine maintenance" button that lowers the engine assembly for access? Any short of that is asking for trouble from a product liability perspective.
“pretty easy” is a relative term. I wouldn’t have the knowledge and experience, but a skilled mechanic will probably already have the tools on hand. I doubt there will be an engine drop mode (hydraulics that lower the engine), something like that is another point of chronic failure.
The old VW buses didn't get that hot...
