|
Solar-Powered Rickshaw Unveiled in India |
|
|
|
|
Contributed by Glory Dassi
|
 Solar Rickshaw Blessing
And while some may protest that the
rickshaws—mostly driven by migrants from poor Indian
states—are uncivilized, the new Soleckshaw could make
rickshaws palatable even to human rights activists.
The
Soleckshaw, which is currently being tested in Old Delhi, can either be
pedaled or run off of a 36-volt battery that is charged every 45 miles
from a solar charging station. The prototype isn't too shabby,
either— it seats three and has electric lights, an FM radio,
four mobile phone chargers, and can travel at 12 and a half miles per
hour. Additionally, it can go uphill.
But there's a
catch— the Soleckshaw costs 22,000 rupees ($449.76USD, Oct
18-19, 2008) compared to 8,500 (173.77USD) for a traditional rickshaw.
The Indian government plans to alleviate the monetary issue for drivers
by guaranteeing loans so that they can eventually buy their own
vehicles.
 Soleckshaw Solar Rickshaw Inauguration
 Bicycle Rickshaw & Solar Powered Rickshaw
 Soleckshaw Solar Rickshaw
The government also still needs to work
out the minor details of who pays for the solar charging stations and
whether drivers will pay for the electricity. But whatever the outcome
of these decisions, the Soleckshaw will make a practice that doesn't
appear to be going anywhere much more humane.
Published on October 17th, 2008
About Solechshaw: Soleckshaw solar-powered rickshaws provide a breath of fresh air
|
