Eco Factor: Zero-emission electric bike harnesses solar energy to recharge its batteries.
The sun provides one of the most abundant and easy to harness forms of renewable energy, which makes industrial designers think about vehicles and products that can benefit from it. We’ve seen cars, cellphones and several other concept gadgets that rely on the use of solar power and today industrial designer Keegan McCLain has shared with us his new concept motorcycle dubbed the Mc Type 2.
The concept motorcycle is currently a finalist at the Michelin Challenge Design 2010 and will be showcased at the Detroit International Auto Show. The motorcycle is capable of sustained highway speeds and is powered by 148 3.3V lithium-ion cells that are placed at the base of the frame between the aluminum cooling fins for a low center of gravity.
The batteries can be recharged using a conventional 110V outlet or using solar energy that is harvested by the concept’s fairing. When the bike is parked the fairing telescopes back providing a passive source of power and also protects the seat from the elements.
Thanks: [Keegan McCLain]
