A solar-powered three-wheeled tuk tuk starts its journey up Australia’s east coast from Melbourne on November 24.
A team from RMIT University in Melbourne has converted a second-hand Thai tuk tuk to a sun-powered, long-range electric vehicle to promote sustainable transport and a low-carbon future.
The “SolarTuk expedition” is inviting schools, businesses, community groups and others to host them and share the story during the 3000km trip planned to end in Cairns on December 18.
Tuk tuks, also known as an auto-rickshaws, are used by millions of people around the world for their daily commute, the team says. “They’re loud, dirty, small and fun. What they’re not known for is being part of a sustainable transport future, or the vehicle of choice for a long-distance expedition. Until now.”
After travelling south to north up Australia, the team then plans to circumnavigate the globe, to show that an unlikely green vehicle can go the distance.
The team admits it isn’t sure if the full journey can be done – “but it’ll be a hell of a ride trying to find out”.
It’s hailing the Australian road trip as a world-first across the Australian continent by a solar electric tuk tuk.
The global trek is expected to cover more than 30,000km, travelling west.
The SolarTuk has one driver and up to four passengers.
It has a 7kW motor and can do about 50km/h with an expected 300km range per charge.
Canberra, Sydney and Brisbane are all included in the SolarTuk’s stop-overs.
Visit solartuk.org for more information.
