Solar Tricycle  – A Revolution in Sustainable Mobility

In an era of climate change and increasing environmental pollution, innovations in sustainable transport are becoming crucial for the future of our planet. Sustainable transport solutions, such as electric and solar-powered vehicles, not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also help conserve natural resources and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Aleksandar Ilijevski from Leskovac, an electromechanical technician and electric vehicle enthusiast, has a unique story about his passion for innovations in sustainable transport. His love for electric bikes, which began more than a decade ago, eventually led him to the idea of creating a solar tricycle.

Although the initial concept faced obstacles due to the underdeveloped technology of solar panels at the time, Aleksandar never lost sight of his vision. He built his first electric tricycle in 2013 but soon realized that the solar panels available at the time lacked the power to run it. For years, the tricycle operated solely on battery power, with the idea of mounting a solar panel on the roof, waiting for the right moment. Nearly ten years later, with more powerful solar panels available, Aleksandar installed one on his electric tricycle once again.

„The idea ended up in a drawer until I recently saw an ad for solar panels. When I read the specifications and saw how much stronger they’ve become compared to those ten years ago, I immediately realized they could power the electric tricycle we had already built. I decided to give it a try. Our first test rides were without a battery, proving that the solar tricycle could run solely on sunlight — and at a decent speed. The feeling was truly surreal”, Aleksandar explains.

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Solar Energy for the Sustainable Transport of the Future

The importance of solar energy in sustainable transport is immense. Solar-powered vehicles offer the possibility of unlimited range under the right conditions, making them not only environmentally friendly but also economical. With the ongoing development of more powerful and affordable solar panels, solar-powered vehicles are gradually entering the realm of practical application, providing sustainable alternatives for future transport.

The innovator from Leskovac has demonstrated this with his solar tricycle, sending a message that solar-powered vehicles can belong to everyone and can be made from readily available materials. Thanks to technological advances, his tricycle now has the potential for unlimited range under ideal solar conditions. Additionally, a small battery allows it to run even when sunlight is insufficient.

Prepared by Milena Maglovski