The HumanCar Imagine PS is a human-electric hybrid that's capable of doing 100 km/h (62 mph) on a flat surface and 50 km/h uphill (likely with the wind at your back). Labeled a low-mass vehicle (LMV) for obvious reasons, it was developed by Professor Charles Greenwood and it's...wait for it...hand-cranked.
Greenwood has been committed to the human-powered car since 1968, aiming to kill two birds with one stone: a) fumes from those silly internal combustion engines, and b) fatties. Claiming that a bicycle setup doesn't provide enough exercise, Greenwood decided rowing was a better way to create a charge.
If you're worried about that hand-cranked deal, HumanCar claims that even people in their golden years could operate it provided that they are in decent shape (so I guess the US is out). The Imagine Power Station seats four and, if all four occupants want to get involved, it can run on people-power alone. It also operates as a hybrid (human/electric) and pure electric vehicle as well.
The car's chassis can be modified to accept new forms of electric power sources as technology develops, allowing owners to make the most of their investment. Modern amenities like a roof, radio, and GPS system will be available (the touchscreen will also track your workout data).
Currently a $50 refundable deposit is required to reserve one, with total cost coming in around $15,500. Word is there's also a sedan in the works (watch out Elon Musk!). According to physorg.com, production starts once 800 pre-orders are in (currently HumanCar has 100+ orders). Anyone interested?
By Phil Alex
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