Dezeen Magazine

Solar rickshaw by SolarLab

London-based research and design company SolarLab is developing a solar-powered rickshaw.

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The vehicle, which is due to be launched next year, will derive up to 75% of its power from photovoltaics mounted on its roof, and the rest from pedal power.

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Here's some info from SolarLab:

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SOLARCAB/RICKSHAW

As a London-based company, we understand the tangible effects of pollution and congestion in our city. Our solar rickshaw will offer a radical transport solution for tourists and residents of any major metropolis. More importantly, our design is modular enabling easy conversion to load-bearing vehicles for inner city logistics and supply-chain requirements.

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We have a vision of reducing C02 emissions in London by up to 2 tons per rickshaw. The solar generator will create 75% of the total power need to drive the vehicle, while the remaining 25% will be provided by the drivers' pedal-power. The physical exertion needed will be dramatically less than that of even a standard bicycle, much less a traditional rickshaw, allowing any driver, not just athletes, to drive the vehicles.