Now here’s something you don’t see every day: A pretty cool rendition of how to blend eco transport, human hybrid power, solar charging, and cool factor into an eye-catching mode of sustainable transportation.
Durham, North Carolina-based Organic Transit offers the ELF, an egg-shaped production vehicle designed for urban mobility with scant environmental impact. The three-wheeled vehicle uses a 740 watt UpDrive DC motor, NuVinci CVT transmission, and a 30 amp-hour lithium-ion battery to provide electric drive when electrical assist is needed or you tire of pedaling. Top pedal/electric speed is 30 mph.
The manufacturer says charging the battery takes 2 1/2 hours via a standard household outlet or 7 hours with power generated by the vehicle’s 100 watt solar roof panel. Since it’s legally a bicycle, the three-wheeled ELF can be driven on bike paths and even parked on sidewalks.
The lightweight, 160 pound ELF uses a color impregnated composite bodyshell and Lexan polycarbonate windscreen atop a 6061T aircraft grade aluminum frame with stainless steel hardware. It features 26 inch wheels, triple disc brakes, and dynamic dampening. LED headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals are provided. Inside is a single ergonomic sliding seat said to accommodate riders up to 6 foot, nine inches tall, plus a locking cargo compartment. The base model is priced at $5,495. Two-seat variants are available plus a black-and-white tactical version for police and security use.
