Adding Reverse

[texasbaehr]

I am building a reverse trike using a 72V 5000W direct drive hub motor. The Controller that comes with the hub is for a E-bike and has no reverse. I need a way to add reverse on this trike.
Looked at adding a switch between the controller and motor but at 72V and high Amperage that don't look like a safe option.
Anyone done this? Would the use of a relay work?

[73Eldo]

Interesting question. If my math is correct that's around 70 amps and its done all the time with industrial motors but if you used an industrial reversing contractor setup and put it in a water resistant case you would darn near be looking at adding a trailer to haul it around not to mention needing more power conversion stuff to run say 24v coils.

Seems like you can't be the first to want to do that. I would assume that if its done its done in the controller software since at that point its just lines of code rather than high current carrying hardware. It doesn't matter to the mosfets or what ever the switching devices are what order the waves come out, they just do what they are told.

[Diggs Ut]

If you can't figure out a switch to use, most controllers sold on Aliexpress for scooters/ebikes have reverse built into them, but, these types of controllers rarely have PAS and your power requirements are really up there.