In the classic Hanna-Barbera cartoon “The Flintstones,” vehicles were all powered by foot. The first automobile driven by man power on a large scale was the bicycle. There hasn’t been a titanic amount of improvement on that basic mechanism. That is, until now. A human run vehicle with electric assistance is being released by a design firm from Oregon, and it can sustain 25 to 30 mph with impunity. Not only does it conserve a lot on gas, it will keep individuals in pretty good shape with regular use.
The HumanCar
Within the late 60s, engineer Charles Greenwood saw habits that he didn’t like, such as too much commuting and not enough exercise. He also saw an opportunity. Since then, he has worked with a team of designers and other engineers coming up with a vehicle that can operate at motor automobile speeds without a gas engine. The vehicle also provides a great workout, and produces zero emissions. There are already 100 orders in. According to the Daily Mail, once orders hit 800 full production will start. The business has already done the math. Once full capacity production begins, it will already be profitable.
Rowing not only for vessels
The automobile is not pedaled. Rather, it is rowed. The HumanCar Imagine PS will cruise at 25 to 30 miles per hour, though experimental models have been clocked at 60 mph. It seats four. However, fewer than three aboard should engage the electric motor to help. Steering is done by leaning, similar to a motorcycle. The HumanCar isn’t really only for the super fit. Greenwood routinely uses it, is over 60 years old, and even used groups of seniors to test it who adored the machine.
Old principles
The HumanCar is a good idea for neighborhood range trips. It is already street lawful. The DOT has approved it for exactly those uses. There have been other human powered vehicles before. Other things like human run airplanes like the Gossamer Condor and Gossamer Albatross are cool, however have no consumer purpose. Ironically, the urban automobile of the future may end up being straight out of “The Flintstones”.
Find more info on this subject
Daily Mail
dailymail.co.uk/motoring/article-1304120/The-human-powered-car-reach-speeds-60mph.html
Human Car
humancar.com/index.htm
