Talk about putting the cart before the horsepower.
A team made up of university students from Germany and Singapore has created an electric taxi with room for just one passenger…in the front.
Envisioned for use in the world’s increasingly crowded megacities, the scooter-style vehicle features an enclosed pod with a bubble canopy to protect its occupant from the elements and, we’re told, add some safety as they are whisked through traffic by the driver seated behind them on a conventional motorcycle saddle.
The bike’s name is VOI, by the way, which is Vietnamese for elephant. “A symbol of a safe an intelligent mean of transport,” or so its creators say.
A variation of the cargo bicycles that are becoming increasingly popular in urban areas, the cabin can be replaced with a cargo carrier or food stand, the inanimate contents of which will not be able to enjoy (or suffer) the excitement provided by the forward seating position.
With a range of up to 50 miles and a top speed of 28 mph, a ride across town in a VOI might just beat a trip to the amusement park. It’s currently on display at the Taiwan Electric Vehicle Show.
We suggest taking the bus there if you want to check it out.