Posted on 08/15/2010 7:38:06 PM PDT by Willie Green
The HumanCar is the souped-up, street legal version of an old railroad handcar. The four-seater can reach 60 mph when all four passengers are cranking - and there's an electric battery to keep it going when you need a break.
This particular model is the HumanCar Imagine PS, the latest invention of engineer Charles Samuel Greenwood. He's been working on his dream of human-powered automobiles for over four decades, and in the past few years he's created working two- and four-seater models.
Although it might seem that getting even a lightweight car up to 60 mph (or 30 mph on hills) would be a herculean task, Greenwood insists that even a senior citizen in decent shape could operate it successfully. (And there's proof of that in the video below, in which Greenwood takes the car out for a very fun-looking drive.) Of course, it helps that the car has electric plug-in capabilities, so the car can still reach its top speeds even when four occupants aren't rowing their hardest.
(Excerpt) Read more at io9.com ...
Just think how much better it would be with a motor.
Smart ass remarks aside, this is pretty darn clever, and for many could be a viable option. I could go 90% of my daily traveling with a 40 mile range EV.
As for pulling on the handles, hey you’re just sitting there, might as well build some upper body strength at the same time. Use your health club dues to offset car payment ;-)
Four fat people can effectively drive cross-country and lose pounds while at it.
Jackassery ....Cowflop.....Supreme idiocy..
What are you tired of the abuse you take on your train threads?
I say that these MOBILE units need to be placed on rail, making and put solar power on the roofs for added bumps. We’re getting close to perpetual motion.
The market has determined a more efficient way: it’s called gasp ... a bicycle.
LOL! Good one!
Just turn on the AC.
BTW, where do I plug in my laptop?
This human powered car sounds like a great exercise machine but think how sweaty you would be by the time you got to work. Would not be a good idea for office workers or anyone except laborers and they don’t usually need any more exercise. Imagine if your destination was up hill. I think I am going to pass on this invention.
I was trying to figure out how this thing would tow my 35’ Fifth Wheel Toy Hauler.
/facepalm.....
That’s actually pretty cool. He’s got some sort of flywheel system going with a power transmission, maybe electric drive. i’ve got nothing against fun and useful, as long as you know your limitations.
It can’t be as efficient as a bike for example, too much weight, windage and transmission loss.
It was my understanding that an athlete can put out 1/3 of a horsepower for approximately 1/2 hour. Who knows what the average out-of-shape commuter can do. The numbers just don’t add up.
Obviously, this vehicle was designed in a very flat area...
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