This new solar powered rickshaw or the ‘Soleckshaw‘ is a most convenient way to travel in the most congested of cities. Recently launched in Delhi, this electric rickshaw has a sturdier frame than the earlier models, features soft foamed seats that can comfortably seat three people and can travel at the speed of 10mph and up to 40 miles before its 36 volt battery needs to be recharged.

Chief Minister of New Delhi, Sheila Dikshit (c-l) and Minister of Science and Technology, Kapil Sibal (c-r) ride in the new solar-electric rickshaw, after its launch in New Delhi

The rickshaw pullers are very happy with this new launch that will lighten their burden because the batteries will take the weight while the they keep pedaling on it. That means less energy used.

Earlier the rickshaw pullers worked all day to earn something as meager as £2.50 a day but with the new solar powered rickshaw the Indian government believes that things will change. They also think that a modified version of the soleckshaw that involves a car-like body may turn to be a fruitful discovery to reducing global warming.

‘In the age of global warming, the soleckshaw, with improvements, can be successfully developed as competition for all the petrol and diesel run small cars,’ said Pradip Kumar Sarmah of the CSIR.

Though I salute the idea of a zero carbon foot print vehicle, I don’t think it’s safe and fast enough to be “invading” our streets. It’s good for the environment if you think of it solely, but considering that they clog up the roads, I think they need to improve it … and do it fast. - via DailyMail

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Though I’ve seen eco-cabs and electric rickshaws by now, this new solar rickshaw by SolarLab have something to be proud of. Most of the energy, 75-percent, will come from the roof-mounted photovoltaic cells while the rest of 25-percent will be delivered through pedaling so better be prepared if there’s no sun outside.

I can see a battery in this sketch but to be honest, what kind of engine is that? Any details about it, would be great. Don’t plan to drive during the night unless SolarLab has an extraordinary battery to help you out or you’re training for the Olympics on that hill.

SolarLab via Dezeen