Running on solar, electric, and man-power, the Elf is a type of velomobile, a pedal-powered mini-car. The Elf can go up to 30 miles on a single charge, and can juice up in just 2 hours when plugged in, or in a day through the solar panels on its roof. With a max motor speed of 20 mph and a cargo area that can support 350 lbs, it's not hard to believe they just raised over $200,000 on Kickstarter.
In other news, Walmart pledges to stock more US-made products, and check out a transparent trash bag for things that aren't trash. See the headlines after the jump.
• Is This Solar-Powered Half-Electric Bicycle With A Roof The Future Of Transportation? | Co.Exist
• Walmart Pledges to Add $50B in American-Made Products | Ecouterre
• A Transparent Trash Bag For Garbage That Isn't Ready To Be Thrown Away | Co.Exist
(Image: via Co.Exist)
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I may need an Elf! Definitely would like to test drive one -- what a great idea for people like me who might have a little trouble getting groceries with a regular bike, for instance, but would like to be more ecological "in the neighborhood". (I have a Prius for my work commute. It's only 15 miles, but has 28 traffic lights, so the constant stop-and-go is perfect for maximizing the Prius charging system.)
great idea. I get by without a car most of the time but its a pain to carry two weeks worth of groceries or home improvement items.
In our neighborhood we "showcase" items on top of the garbage cans. They don't stay long.
Forgot to add we don't need bags.
perfect for my brother since our mom won't let him get a motorcycle