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Tianjin Solar Vehicle From Hanergy (2022) Looking Like Heinlein's (1940)
This is apparently the first vehicle that gets its energy from the sun alone that is made in China - the Tianjin solar vehicle.
(Tianjin solar vehicle by Hanergy)
The solar module area of this vehicle is 8.1 square meters, far more an SEV like the Lightyear ), which is equipped with 5 square meters of cells...
(Via electrek)
- Seating for three plus a driver
- Dimensions: 13.4 x 5.8 x 5.9 ft.
- Body weight: 1,020 kg (2,250 lbs.)
- Maximum daily power generation: 7.6 kWh on sunny days
- Max tested range is 74.8 km (~47 miles)
- Maximum speed is 79.2 km/h (49 mph)
As time goes on, these vehicles get closer and closer to what science fiction author Robert Heinlein imagined in his 1940 story Coventry; he called his vehicle the Steel Tortoise:
The vehicle he had chosen was... was extremely rugged, easy to operate, and almost foolproof. It drew its power from six square yards of sunpower screens on its low curved roof. These drove a constant-load motor, or, when halted, replenished the storage battery against cloudy weather, or night travel. The bearings were 'everlasting', and every moving part, other than the caterpillar treads and the controls, were sealed up, secure from inexpert tinkering.
Steel Tortoise from 'Coventry' by Robert Heinlein)It could maintain a steady six miles per hour on smooth, level pavement. When confronted by hills, or rough terrain, it did not stop, but simply slowed until the task demanded equaled its steady power output.
(Read more about steel tortoise)
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Technovelgy (that's tech-novel-gee!) is devoted to the creative science inventions and ideas of sf authors. Look for the Invention Category that interests you, the Glossary, the Invention Timeline, or see what's New.
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