With the average fuel consumption of a double-decker London bus a paltry 4.5mpg, the arrival on the capital’s streets of an entirely emissions-free bus could herald a new era of environmentally-friendly public transport.
The Pedibus’s green credentials are courtesy of its passengers, all of whom have to pedal to keep it moving. The bus uses a strong but lightweight aluminium chassis that means each cyclist is carrying no more than a few extra kilos in comparison to cycling a conventional bike. The Pedibus is so efficient that one person can cycle it with relative ease.
Gradients of 7% are achievable with a little extra legwork. According to its operators, a physically-fit passenger crew of 8 can generate up to 7hp and enough endurance to get the Pedi bus from Windsor to London in just under six hours.
The Pedibus is not intended for long distances – its aim is to provide green and sociable tours of London sites.
Solar panels charge batteries by day in order to power a sound system and lights by night.
Mary
Brilliant!
But why isn’t the driver/steerer/helmsman pedalling?
It wouldn’t be any good in our city, too many hills. Come to think of it, few tourists!
Barry
Fun Idea. Great for city tours – for the young and fit!