New solar-powered bike could replace second car

A new environmentally-friendly solar-powered bicycle being developed by a small group of researchers at MUERI (the Murdoch University Energy Research Institute) will help take the effort out of pedalling.

(from left): Colin Black, Ken Cheok, Katrina O'Mara, Chris Lund, Margaret Matassa and Evan Gray.

    Project leader Mr Ken Cheok said the energy from one sunny day would provide enough power for two weeks of ‘pedal-assisted’ riding.
    “A small bank of batteries over the back wheel powers a 200 Watt motor built into the front wheel of the bike,” said Mr Cheok.
    “An accelerator on one of the handlebars allows the rider to vary the amount of throttle used according to prevailing road conditions.”
    He said the pedals could still be used for starting off, steep inclines and keeping fit.
    Specially-built portable solar panels provided the energy for the batteries, which would eventually be supplied by Murdoch’s ZBB (Zinc Bromine Battery) Project.
    Although still a prototype, the state-of-the-art mountain bike is expected to be available for sale in limited numbers for around $1200.
    Mr Cheok believes it could even replace the second car in some households.

Related articles

Travelsmart

Further information