Taiwanese designer "Larry Chen" has designed a new "Solar Electric Bike" called "Sunny Day."
Mr. Chen recently won the Grand Prize in the 12th annual "International Bicycle Design Competition for this sleek green bike. The prize was the equivalent to $16,300 U.S. dollars. He beat 18 other finalists.
As you can see the solar panel is located on the front stem and is adjustable. Mr. Chen's aim here is to design a foldable bike that relies more on getting it's energy from the solar panel rather than having to charge up the battery. The adjustable panel raises to soak up the rays when not in use. It's also designed to be easily loaded on public transportation such as a bus.
Some people who have tried to make bikes like this argue that the batteries that have to be used to build this are too heavy to make the bike as portable as the designer would like.
The bike is still "conceptual" and the design needs refinement. But, he thinks that the jury was impressed as the world energy crisis is fresh on everyone's mind -"Chen explained "Although the bike cannot provide a large amount of solar energy, it is still enough for a short trip of 20 minutes--perfect for urban commuters." Mr. Chen is looking for investors to help him work this project to completion.
Two thumbs up for Mr. Chen!
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