Looking for a buggy project

[glassdoctor]

I don't see a problem having the controller next to the battery.

Are you concerned about heat from the battery? The battery likely will never get over 120* even on a 90* day... that's the hottest I have ever had a lipo get. My lipos generally don't get much above ambient temps (in summer)... maybe 10-20 deg.

I need to go back and check the layout you are using... I forget exactly what it is.