kenguru wheelchair friendly electric car

designboom
kenguru wheelchair friendly electric car
kenguru wheelchair friendly electric car
12


'kenguru' wheel chair accessible electric vehicle

 
based out of texas, start-up company community cars has developed an affordable commuting option for users restricted to wheelchair access.
the 'kenguru' is a single passenger electric vehicle that provides a range of 70-110 km (45-70 miles) taking approximately 8 hours to charge
with a regular 110v outlet and a top speed of 45km/h (30 mph). 
 
unlike traditional vans that are modified for handicap use, the small car eliminates passenger doors and incorporates
a rear hatch system for easy access by loading onto a ramp that can be used at curb or street height. the 'kenguru'
features a steel frame construction under a fiberglass chassis that weighs nearly 550kg. it uses fully motorized handlebar
styled controls, and is powered with two 'permanent magnet synchronous motors' for each wheel, making it rear wheel drive.
 
 
'kenguru' 3/4 side view


the car was first conceptualized by hungarian company kenguru services in 2006 (originally covered by designboom here)
but failed to begin production and was acquired by community cars in 2010.  the company is now currently seeking funding on
rockethub
to produce the car by early to mid 2013, and plans to introduce a joystick-operated model for those who are unable
to use the motorized handlebars.



front view



'kenguru' rear view
 
 
'kenguru' interior view with handlebar controls

 

'kenguru' review with CEO stacy zoern
12
  • looks like the person would get crushed in an accident

    three says:
  • Nice! Now THAT is a good use of technology!

    db says:
  • Great Idea! It solves a real mobility problem. Congrats!

    dieter says:
  • Great Idea! It solves a real mobility problem. Congrats!

    dieter says:
  • why don’t you show how to get in / out?

    arno Caprez says:
  • well done

    Paedra says:
  • it will be good for elders also

    jayabal says:
  • Very nice idea, just need to check safety issues, specially when chashing.
    Congratulations and good luck!

    Mario says:
  • Good idea but horrible design, looks like on of those garage made vehicles that use car spare parts.

    I cannot i understand why people discard design so much, it´s the Nº1 selling point of any product nowadays, without a good look people will not be willing to understand the product, if it looks good/awesome, people will want to know more.

    What? says:
  • 36 year para/wheelchair user. Have had big vans, small vans, chair toppers and thrown the chair in the backseat. Yes, some are harder than others BUT I was never limited to 45 mph. Can’t imagine commuting on Interstate to the city at that speed!

    sandykb says:
  • a great start in the right direction,with battery capacity going to 4 times the amount of current batteries,it will no longer be a wait and see.We need to start now,more single person use vehicles,lightweight ,aerodynamic,both,fuel and electric.I wish them all the best,now let me get back to the drawing board.

    Thomas Lewis says:
  • saw the video that said a joystick drive version is in the works – any idea when this will be out? i would really like to receive your news letter so i can be kept aware of your progress. i would give anything to be able to buy a joystick model

    ROY CRAWFORD says:

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