Tricycles for Grownups

There are currently one billion cars in the world. According to Daniel Sperling’s book Two Billion Cars, this number will double in the next 20 years. Do we have enough gasoline, steel and plastic for two billion cars? We do if we rethink the assumption that we need two massive vehicles in every driveway ready to wage war on the highways of America. Is there an alternative to the vehicular arms race?

I suggest looking to a child’s tricycle for inspiration.  Consider the elegant simplicity of a tricycle as well as the fuel efficiency when you upsize it and add an engine. Here are four tricycle models to help us get from here to there with a lower environmental impact.

1.    Hodge Hawk

A recent entry from New Zealand, the Hodge Hawk shown above has 120 horsepower and looks like it should be parked in Batman’s garage.

2.    Piaggio MP3 Hybrid

This hybrid three wheeler can travel up to 40 miles on a charge and averages 140 miles/gallon. A press release states that the Piaggio MP3 Hybrid will be available in the US in early 2010 but I just saw one on the road last week.

3.    Aptera

You can’t ignore the distinctive Aptera design when it drives by. Find out what people thought of the 200 mpg Aptera at the TED conference in February.

4.    Pumgo Scooter

Introduced at the New York International Toy Fair in February, the Pumgo Scooter has two pedals so you can work out both sides of your body.

Special Bonus Thought About Tricycles 

Tricycles are good for more than travel. They are apparently also useful for painting pictures of Lance Armstrong. The video’s soundtrack and the end product make it worth the watch.

Have you seen any other cool tricycles? Share your stories here.