Vehicles within the classic cartoon “The Flintstones” were all foot powered. The mechanism that propels the bicycle hasn’t really been improved on since it was invented. That is, until now. car that uses man power no longer has to be relegated to the bike path, as a design firm from Oregon has come up with a man powered car that can do 30 mph with ease. The vehicle can give you a workout and get you around without needing to fill it up.
HumanCar
In the late 60s, engineer Charles Greenwood saw habits that he didn’t like, for instance too much commuting and not enough exercise. He also saw an opportunity. The concept that he and the team he works with was to create car that can be powered by man effort without needing a traditional motor, that travels at the exact same speed as automobiles effortlessly in urban and residential areas. The automobile needs no gas, produces no emissions, and gives users a workout too. You will find already 100 orders in. According to the Daily Mail, once orders hit 800 full production will start. The company is good to go, as it can be profitable once in full production mode.
Row, row, row your car
The vehicle isn’t 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. There is a rechargeable electric motor aboard, and the four seat automobile should have the motor on if fewer than three are aboard. Turning is done by leaning. The HumanCar isn’t only for the super fit. Greenwood routinely uses it, is over 60 years older, and even used groups of seniors to test it who adored the machine.
A new take on an old concept
The automobile is obviously aimed at in the city and around the block driving. It is already street legal. The DOT has approved it for exactly those uses. This isn’t brand new technology, really. Human powered autos have been made before. However, some human powered autos have little commercial use. The Gossamer Condor and Gossamer Albatross flew, but cost thousands. Interestingly, “The Flintstones” may have inspired an auto for the future.
Daily Mail
dailymail.co.uk/motoring/article-1304120/The-human-powered-car-reach-speeds-60mph.html
Human Car
humancar.com/index.htm
