Research for a 1:1 electric car

I know you were saying you dont want it to be a hotrod but in this link there could be some valuable info. When I first read about the White Zombie I would think instead of trying to run all that voltage, try increasing the capacity. I would go with the Sentra

I went through his site and the "Blur Meanie" looks to be more of what you are trying to do

http://www.plasmaboyracing.com/bluemeanie.php

[mistercrash]

This is also an alternative to building it. Buy one that is not too expensive.
Zenn Car Motors

If you click "view" then "videos" and then "Rick Mercer Report" you can see a funny but informative interview with the CEO and a bit how they build it and also a test drive.

It's only got two doors but you can fit 20 cases of beer and a box of cereal in it.