 Just unveiled last week, the Solarin Turtle is “the world’s first solar-powered scooter,” according to the company that developed it, Solarin Holdings (M) Sdn Bhd. While they might be right, we’ve seen at least one DIY version before; still, it’s good news for anyone interested in saving gas and cutting down on emissions.
Though it will be built in Malaysia, interest in the scooter around the world has been strong; China has already placed an order for 100,000 units. Details on the scooter remain a little incomplete (we can’t even find a real picture of it), though it’s reported to have a top speed of 55 mph (almost 90 km/h) and will also be rechargeable by thermal heat or electrical charge. The price has also yet to be determined, but, according to the company president, will not exceed RM3,000 (US$820).
I don’t see how they can produce it and sell it for that price. With the specs. saying it will go 55mph, and as small as it looks…..well, the technology is not there yet. The other problem is that solar produces power during the day, which is also when you’ll want to be driving the scooter.
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