Everything old is new again for one Japanese manufacturer, which has unveiled an electric rickshaw.
The “Meguru” is a three-wheeled, three-seat compact vehicle whose single lithium-ion battery allows for a maximum speed and range of 40km/h, although the number of batteries could be increased for a longer ride.
Nobuyuki Ogura, CEO of Yodogawa, which built the vehicle in cooperation with three other small companies in western Japan, said: “This is a true environmentally friendly car.
“Instead of an air-conditioner, it comes with a pinwheel, and we are also thinking of adding a wind chime because it gives a refreshing sound to cool you down without the need of electricity.
“It doesn't have a heater, but comes with blankets to keep you warm in winter.”
A normal driving license is required to take the vehicle on the road but car registration is unnecessary.
Devised as part of a project to revitalise small businesses facing economic hardship, the vehicle - which is 2.5m long, 1.2m wide and 1.6m tall - also showcases traditional Japanese crafts.
The body is coated in red lacquer, the floor is filled with recycled bamboo and the retractable “window” has been carefully crafted in the shape of a Japanese fan using Japanese “washi” paper. All were made by craftsmen in western Japan.
Yodogawa says it is selling the vehicle for about one million yen (R83 500) while assessing a business plan for mass production.
Even disposing of the car when it’s worn out poses no problems.
Ogura said: “We've used all-natural materials so, if you ever decide to get rid of the car, simply bury it in the ground.” - Reuters