Friday, October 3, 2008

Prometheus: The solar-powered electric motorcycle

Prometheus: The solar-powered electric motorcycle


Jim Corning, founder of Prometheus Solar LLC makes an attempt to revive Craig Vetter’s 1980s Streamliner by using lithium-ion phosphate batteries which are connected to a 10 hp electric motor. The donor bike is apparently his wife’s old Kawasaki Ninja 250 and their house is a complete mess due to the solar panels that this innovative builder has installed there.

The top speed of 110 km/h and the 80 km range is surely not fast or distant enough to escape from an angry wife, but the idea of a futuristic non-polluting motorcycle seems to be holding on pretty good. Another machine like this and we’re all going to ride green in the future.

Its biggest down point is the sporty riding position on a bike that, frankly, is designed as a scooter. Actually, if riding in an upright position, your helmet’s visor has much chances to touch the windscreen at the slightest touch of the front brakes.