Tico Community Vehicle

Tuesday, September 12, 2006

Electric Vehicle store pics


Battery


On Sat, Wieke and I went to an EV store on Wellington rd in St kilda, www.evehicle.com . It was recommended by Scott. We were there for almost an hour talking to the guys there, they were really helpful. They even gave us a CD on electric Vehicles, let us take some photos.

This was the main kit they sold, retailing at around $1400. The motor in the front wheels as it is more, energy efficient. The battery is carried on the backwheel mount. The bike can alternate its power sources between pedal power and electrical power.

Wednesday, August 30, 2006

I have sent a letter to number of of universitys in costa Rica, asking for any advice they may have for a Costa Rican Vehicle. i am not sure if i will have any luck, as most of their websites are in Spanish.

However, this is a copy of the letter.

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am an Industrial Design student from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Australia. We are currently undertaking a project in which we are designing a vehicle specifically catered for the people of Costa Rica. We have chosen Costa Rica because it has a lush environment, and a challenging terrain that we would like to protect by creating a more eco-friendly vehicle.
Our group has particular focus is designing a community vehicle that stimulates a positive interaction from the community. We have made a list of the requirements that we have gathered from our research so far, but it is difficult to gain reliable information from the other side of the world. We would be extremely grateful and appreciative for any insights that your staff or students have may have regarding designing this vehicle.


Our Requirements so far:

EV (powered by electricity) we gather that electricity there is ample electricity in the country and it could be used as a fuel source. We are not sure if highlands have power.
Low Impact on environment

Low Cost Many people in Costa Rica Walk and Ride and bus. Do they prefer to do this method of transport or are cars too expensive?

Able to carry typical Tico family plus extras if needed
All-terrain
Weatherproof
Maximise Safety for passengers

Positive Impact on community Is the society community oriented?
Easy and cheap to refuel


Thankyou very much for your time and patience in reading our letter,

Shae Higgins

Monday, August 28, 2006

Community Networks example

Guides

This may be useful to look at as a starting point for a positive community impact.

I spoke to a friend who is a member of the Girls Guides about their influence on the community. The mission statement of the guides is to help young women grow into self respecting members of the community.
The organisation non-profit, all members of the guides are unpaid volounteers except for four employees in the head office that perform reception and paperwork duties. The guides is not subsidised by government it requires members to pay an small anual fee of $50, and $2 a week to covercraft activities etc.
The guides are involved in many aspects of the community such as planting trees, daffodil day, charities, clean up Australia. Most meetings involves fun activities such as crafts, sports, and dress up nights. However during these meetings, the guides aim to earn badges badges for their participation in the different areas. The highlight for their efforts is a yearly citizenship ceremony in which the major congradulates all members individually.

Thursday, August 24, 2006

Community Ev blog