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Birmingham-based environmental technology company Valeswood has released a hydrogen fuel-cell powered bicycle called the Pearl, which you don't need a licence or insurance to ride on the roads. The bike is a tiny commuter, with 20in wheels and a folding frame.
Powered by a 24v Pearl fuel cell, Valeswood claims it can reach speeds of up to 25km/h and go 100km without refuelling. For those who prefer the option of getting a bit of exercise, pedals are also included so the Pearl can be ridden like a normal bike. We wouldn't count on getting up much speed under human power though -- thanks to the fuel cells the Pearl comes in at a hefty 32kg.
"It folds in half and will fit neatly in the boot of an average estate car without folding down the rear seat," says the Valeswood website. "As with all our bikes it is EU-compliant and does not need insurance or a licence for road use."
So far, so good. However, there is one big down side to this bike -- it's green. Not as in environmentally friendly (although it is), but as in lime green. You will look daft riding this bike. Please make an adult-sized and sensibly coloured version, Valeswood.
Other hydrogen vehicles launched this Autumn by Valeswood include small cars, mobility vehicles, scooters and small boats -- all powered by hydrogen fuel cells. Fuel cells produce only water and electricity making the vehicles silent and pollution free, while green hydrogen is available from renewable energy such as solar, wind and crop energy power. Valeswood Managing Director John Turner says "Any business which produces a small amount of its own renewable energy can easily convert some of this to hydrogen to supply green fuel for its own vehicles."
Prices for Valeswood scooters and hydrogen bikes sit somewhere around £2000 to £3000.
12 November 2007 07:22pm
Great news from Valeswood and good news for all HYDROGENHEADS this eco friendly bike will take the fear factor out of hydrogen and make the public aware of the benefits of an "hydrogen economy".
I hope you are looking at China to set up shop ;the market is huge, volumes will go up and drive prices down. A win win for all parties!
Mike H. founder HYDROGENHEADS
12 November 2007 11:43pm
today i just received my first fuel cell thing from the fuel cell store a medis power pack
a hydrogen fuel-cell powered bicycle sounds good how many years or decades will this take Just kidding I hope :)
17 February 2008 03:04am
How I get the bike...how much price on it...how Do I refill the power tank..
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