Eco Factor: Hybrid scooter powered by lithium-ion batteries fueled by a sterling engine.
Dean Kamen, the inventor of Segway personal transporter, is now trying to develop a new type of motorcycle that can run on anything that burns. Unlike conventional scooters and motorcycles that are powered by an internal combustion engine, giving rise to emissions due to un-burned fuel, this new machine will be powered by a hybrid engine combining an electric motor powered by lithium-ion batteries that are recharged by a sterling engine.
Sterling engines don’t require internal combustion of fuel, as they mainly rely on air getting hotter and cooler to push the pistons. This allows for the engine to work on anything that can be burned to release heat. This approach, though, green doesn’t generate much power and torque which can keep our speedy lives going. Kamen tried to use the engine along with an electric motor where batteries are charged by the sterling engine, which allows for the bike to generate more power.
While running on slow speed, the sterling engine is good for the job and when more power and more speed is desired the electric engine takes over. The bike Kamen has designed hasn’t been unveiled to public eyes, but the initial drawings suggest that the motorcycle will be more like a scooter carrying the sterling engine toward the rear end.
Via: Gizmag
