Abstract
The limits imposed by oil reserves, global warming, road space and air pollution are a great challenge for mass transportation in densely populated cities. A compact two seat electric vehicle, only 1.7 m long and 1.2 m wide, with an empty weight of only 45 kg without batteries is possible through a revolutionary structure. The innovation consists of a light but strong sandwich plate with a foam core, to which the 4 wheels and two seats are attached. The cabin has the function and shape of a large safety helmet and is made of EPP foam with exterior reinforcing. Instead of doors the entire cabin is lifted up from the platform and swings back. The brushless DC motor with permanent magnets has a mechanical power of 1250 W. On a flat road only 360 W electrical are needed at a top speed of 24 km⁄h. Steering is with a mechanical “joystick” equipped with a lever for braking and a sliding sleeve for power control. Safety, also for pedestrians and cyclists, is assured by the foam cabin and fast braking with the hand.
