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The Solarmobil May Be the Ultimate Weekend Getaway Trike

Solarmobil is one of the sleekest electric trike designs we came across in quite a long time. It's hard to tell what we loved best about it in the first place, but honestly, it doesn't matter. What DOES matter is the fact that this machine almost looks like a DIY project that could be built even by noobs in the field.
The Solarmobil 8 photos
Photo: Solarmobil.com
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Its creators say that various materials could be used to craft a Solarmobil, from aluminium to steel or even bamboo. Well, as cool and romantic riding a bamboo bike may sound, we'de rather go for more traditional materials. Of course, if one plans to take things to the high-tech level, carbon fiber and titanium elements are obviously a great choice, as well.

The Solarmobil provides room for two passengers, and its stick steering system makes sure either occupant could technically operate the trike taking turns in case of longer trips. Controls are simple and intuitive, with braking and throttle using the same stick.

The roof delivers 1 kW of solar power

The reclined position makes sure that riding the Solarmobil is a comfortable experience. The generous roof is covered with a 1kW photovoltaic panel with 21% efficiency, that feeds a 600w hub motor in the rear wheel.

In Austria, the home country of the Solarmobil, this contraption is considered as being a bicycle, while other EU markets will classify it as a pedelec. That's right, one can also use muscle power to move around in the Solarmobil, and operating is most likely includes full-electric and pedal-assist modes.

Energy is stored in battery packs of various capacities, and we guess that the Solarmobil project could be upgraded with more lightweight lithium batteries, and why not, two more hub motors with regenerative braking for the front wheels.

No word on smartphone integration and other modern-world amenities, but these are not difficult to implement if one wishes so. Apparently, building the basic Solarmobil version could set you back with some €2,500 ($2,760) which is not exactly a lot of money, given how tricky this EV is. Definitely drop Solarmobil a line and ask for more details
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