Vehicle can run at least 80 km with six-hour recharging

Kerala will soon have a solar-powered three-wheeler. The project, conceptualised by an entrepreneur, is set to be launched on August 15.

The solar panels fitted on the roof of the three-wheeler will provide power, stored in a battery. The battery can be charged by electricity in the absence of solar power.

The vehicle is being assembled by Lifeway Solar Private Limited, a Kochi-based enterprise, owned by Georgekutty Karianappally, who said the vehicle could seat five persons.

The solar panels fitted on the roof are 1.5 metres long and 1 metre wide. The vehicle can attain a speed of 40 km and can run a minimum of 80 km with a six-hour charging from solar light, Mr. Karianapally told The Hindu . After the pilot project, it would be extended to various cities in Kerala, he said.

‘‘My vision is to inculcate a culture among the people to use renewable energy for day-to-day use and to create a habit of sharing the rickshaw while travelling in cities to reduce carbon monoxide emission, thereby bringing down the carbon footprint on earth. e-bikes and e-rickshaws are popular in seven States in India. We have to establish solar roof for autorickshaw stands so that solar rickshaws can charge while the vehicle is idling at the stand, he said.

The project has been submitted for clearance from the Transport Commissionerate, he said, hoping that clearance would be received soon. The Transport Commissioner said he would have to examine the relevant papers.

Mr. Karianapally said the officials wanted to see the demonstration and his company was waiting for the opportunity. A company, based in Delhi, is already making efforts to launch e-bikes in Kerala. The company has received clearance from the transport authorities.