Solar bike


Project:

Solar Bike

Understanding User Preferences, Experiences and Acceptance

Duration:

Feb 2016- Feb 2017


Dr. ir. P.E.W. (Pauline) van den Berg, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Urban Science and Systems,

Prof. dr. T.A. (Theo) Arentze, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Urban Science and Systems

Prof. dr. Ing. K.T (Karst) Geurs, Centre for Transport Studies, k.t.geurs@utwente.nl


ABSTRACT

Solar Bikes
Understanding User Preferences, Experiences and Acceptance

Solar bikes (S-bikes) are an innovative, sustainable transport option that can offer a substitute for car travel, and can thus reduce air pollution and stimulate a healthy lifestyle. S-bikes are electric bikes with solar cells that are 100% powered by the sun. This expands their range compared to regular E-bikes (as the bikes are charged during the trip and at destination without electricity) and appeals to a green image of the transport mode. The aim of this project is to bring different parties from knowledge institutes, industry and society together in order to understand people’s preferences, conditions for acceptance and experiences with S-cycling. Insight in this user behavior will assist urban policy makers in identifying which interventions in the built environment can stimulate the acceptance and use of S-bikes. Moreover, it assists designers and product developers on how to develop the S-bikes according to user preferences. Increasing the acceptance and use of S-bikes will be beneficial to society as it reduces carbon emissions and increases physical activity and public health. This ‘Lighthouse’project is funded by the 3TU.Bouw Centre of Excellence for the Built Environment.