Pedal Economics

Thursday, December 06, 2012

Nice article on Electric Velomobiles

Nice discussion on electric assist for extending range, not electric power to replace human power. This is approaching, in my mind, the Twike, a two-person side-by-side electric assist pedal vehicle.

I think most people would agree, the "Price" of electric assist velomobiles seems very high, but the "Cost" may be low when you factor in the "Cost" of an automobile. Stumbling blocks include single seat, children, pets, cargo and the like.

Now, if one could combine the Google self-drive technology with w velomobile, then you could have your kids "In Tow" in their oown mini velomobiles behind your own, situated in the "Road Train" configuration where one vehicle follows another by computer control where only the lead vehicle is "driving"

http://www.lowtechmagazine.com/2012/10/electric-velomobiles.html

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

City Council of Richmond VA adopts Sustainability Plan

On July 9, City Council has adopted the "RVAgreen: a Roadmap to Sustainability" plan from the Mayor's office. The plan was funded by the Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grant. Check out the announcement here and then view the plan.... Link: http://gorvagreen.blogspot.com/2012/07/city-council-votes-to-adopt-resolution.html

Monday, March 26, 2012

Open Streets, closed to cars

An interesting concept that can temporarily or periodically close streets to automobile traffic. Several localities have tried it. check out Open Streets Project for an overview and locations.