News Archives - July 2014

Top solar-powered gadgets for summer

Solar power isn’t just a great hope for world governments hoping to cut carbon emissions; the technology also promises convenience and savings to the individual. Whilst solar powered calculators have been with us since the 1970s, the sun will be able to charge many more of our personal gadgets in future as solar PV cell technology becomes more and more…

Airlines to swap seats for bicycle saddles

In a bid to cram as many people as possible on board their planes, airlines may soon remove seats and place passengers on rows of bicycle saddles. As described in a recent patent application by Airbus, passengers would sit on fold-down saddles, four of which would fit in the space occupied by three conventional economy class seats. If the new seating…

In-car PA for drivers to shout at kids in the back

With over 15,000 passenger vehicles every day crossing the channel to France by ferry and Euro Tunnel at this time of the year, and a similar number of drivers bracing themselves for squabbling passengers, endless loo stops and the ever-present chorus of “are we there yet?”, an end to such Autoroute Angst may soon be at hand for drivers of the…

The Housetrike: A pedal-powered home

The Housetrike is a cargo bike-based dwelling intended for use by the homeless, refugees and urban nomads. Its designer hopes the tricycle will give its users an independent, healthy, safe and above all dignified life by addressing the challenges of shelter, income and mobility. The cargo box transforms quickly and easily into a warm and comfortable bed. As well as providing…

Bicycle radar or flamethrower for speeding drivers?

It’s hard to know how best to deal with drivers who overtake too fast and too close, but Backtracker believes the answer lies with its high-tech bicycle rear light that can monitor approaching traffic and warn of vehicles approaching at speed. The device can detect vehicles at distances up to 150 metres and speeds of up to 100 mph. Handlebar-mounted LEDs display…