Title: Electrically assisted human-powered vehicles: an option for commuters?

Authors: J.K. Raine, N.G. Maxey

Addresses: Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand. ' Design Engineer, MENTEC Ltd, Timaru, New Zealand

Abstract: Human-powered vehicles assisted by small motors (AHPVs) may present an option for easing urban traffic congestion, vehicle energy consumption and pollution. This paper outlines a design rationale for these vehicles and reports on the development and testing of an experimental electrically assisted HPV (EAHPV) that is particularly suited to relatively level terrain and environments where the reduction of noise and exhaust emissions is at a premium. The paper also reports on results of a vehicle energy consumption computer modelling exercise which demonstrates the effects of road gradient and the advantages of a low drag aerodynamic body in the selection of an appropriate electric boost motor. The University of Canterbury Tricanter MK I11 recumbent tricycle was modified to be an EAHPV prototype, and gave a pleasantly driveable vehicle with a readily achievable range of 40-50 km.

Keywords: electrically assisted human power; human-powered vehicles; HPVs; vehicle modelling; energy consumption; road gradient; low drag; aerodynamics; electric boost motors; vehicle design.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVD.1996.061891

International Journal of Vehicle Design, 1996 Vol.17 No.5/6, pp.663 - 680

Published online: 28 May 2014 *

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