Pedalling on solar power

TNN | May 9, 2013, 04.23 AM IST

CHANDIGARH: Let's take a look at this solar powered-cum-manual mode rickshaw, which is much lighter than the conventional one, reduces driving effort and maintenance drastically and is environment-friendly with zero emissions. A group of PEC mechanical engineers managed to create a niche for themselves by inventing a special hybrid rickshaw with a host of innovative inputs on it. This vehicle was selected among five projects of the department displayed at the grand annual exhibit a?? Open House a?? last month. What makes this invention stand out is the sensitivity and practical utility for its users.

"Our eco-friendly tricycle will help rickshaw pullers earn a living in a better way and at the same time, will keep the environment healthy," said group leader Aziz Luna. The students have installed three batteries and a 250 watt motor inside the vehicle so that the driver do not require a licence. The motor, which weighs approximately 5kg, gets its power through solar energy. Aziz said that the batteries would last for around two years and the vehicle will not need much maintenance.

Team member Abhimanyu Goyal, who is a fourth-year student, said: "There are two ways to use the rickshaw. The driver can start pedalling and then get the motor powered on, or can even cold-start the motor to get enough throttle in needy situations." Ashish, a mechanical engineering student of PEC, added, "Two passengers weighing 200kg can be seated at one time and the vehicle can reach speeds up to 15kmph."

Another team member Bakulesh Singh said that the rickshaw can also be charged using electricity instead of solar energy, if required. The project was taken up by the team keeping in mind the transport needs of public which are not entirely fulfilled by the public transportation facilities.