Eco Factor: Zero-emission car driven by an electric engine.
Of the several factors hampering the global acceptance of electric vehicles, the cost factor seems to be on the minds of many. To encourage people to drive vehicles with electric engines, car manufacturers should look toward possibilities of a low cost electric vehicle that isn’t flashy but performs the task it is made for in the most effective manner. The ElectriLite by Omni Instruments is one such vehicle.
The car is intended to be locally produced and function as a transportation device. The car can be built in communities with local capital and business ownership. The car weighs just 350lbs and will run on three wheels. It can seat two people and can achieve a top speed of 40mph. The conventional steering in the car is replaced with a trendy joystick with integrated throttle, brake and light control.
The car will be powered by electric motors in each of its front two wheels. If the batteries run out of juice halfway, the car also carries a couple of backup systems as well, which includes two pedal generator sets capable of generating 400W each, solar panels on the roof capable of generating 100W and 60W generating solar panels on the nose. In addition to these systems, there is still room for a 1KW fuel cell as well.
With those many green systems in the car, it can achieve a range of 50 miles without using its alternate sources, which can be extended to over 100 miles with the use of the alternate sources of power. The company claims that the car can be built for as low as $3500 but the final price of the car won’t exceed $5000.
