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They’ve talked about it, they’ve made prototypes and now finally here it is: a human-powered car (The HumanCar) that can reach speeds of up to 80 miles per hour. Beyond just sounding like one, this invention bears an uncanny resemblance to the walkable vehicle from the Flintstones. Love it, hate it, mock it or berate it this strange new vehicle is available for $15,000 as of Earth Day 2008!

The human car isn’t just about energy efficiency or the environment, it is about group activity – making driving an actively participatory experience. It is also about alternative uses for a vast global infrastructure designed and used almost exclusively by gas-guzzling vehicles. The idea for the car has been around for almost five decades now but prototype models only began being built and seriously tested a few years back.

As compared to the bicycle, the HumanCar provides greater speeds and an impact-resistant exoskeleton provides material safety and shelter from the weather. Also, power-assist from batteries can boost the car’s performance in a pinch and help it keep up with regular vehicles on the streets and the built-in trunk, stereo and wi-fi blend in options people have come to expect from cars.

The above video dates back to early models of the car. Try to ignore the music and simply enjoy the ride. The makes say those who try it out keep coming back for more!