Solar-powered motorbike receives honorary mention

Posted : 27-06-2007

A revolutionary solar-powered motorbike received an honorary mention at the prizes for the 6th Barcelona International Motor Show earlier this month.

Designed by Sun-Red, the strange-looking bike incorporates a crescent-shaped series of solar panels that surrounds the rider, with the power generated allowing for speeds of up to 50 km/h, according to the manufacturer.

Because of the hi-tech nature of the bike, riders will have access to a host of information on an LCD screen, including energy consumption and load readouts, as well as the standard information on speed and distance.

Also of note is the highly integrated engine that ensures power is directed straight into the wheel, allowing for maximum efficiency and performance.

Sun-Red said one of the most challenging aspects of the motorbike's design was finding a safe and efficient design that maximised the surface area of solar panels exposed to the sun, while retaining performance - hence the unusual shell-shaped appearance.

The Sun-Red solar motorbike is not yet available commercially, although the Catalonian-based firm has developed a prototype.

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