UK-based D2H Working On An Affordable Zero Emission Alternative To Tuk Tuks

• The concept Tuk Tuk weighs about 480 kg, excluding batteries.

• The chassis will be made of jute-based natural fibre thermoplastic.

• D2H will head the operation in collaboration with Coventive Composites and WMG, funded by Innovative UK's IDP15 scheme.

Asians are all too familiar with tuk tuks, especially in India where they're known as auto rickshaws. Those small little boxes which are theoretically meant to accomodate 4-6 people, but usually end up with a few extra passengers hanging onto the driver's seat. A UK-based engineering company has taken that affordable mode of transportation as the basis of its next project. D2H has introduced a concept, aiming to bring a Tuk Tuk replacement to the UK at an affordable price and with zero emissions in use.

As the lead partner in the consortium funded by Innovative UK's IDP15 scheme, D2H has partnered with Coventive Composites and Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) for this project. Coventive Composites brings a jute-based natural fibre thermoplastic to the table, whose strength puts metal alternatives to shame. Relative to its metal counterparts, the natural fibre also allows for higher level of details to be moulded in and significantly reduces manufacturing cycle times and energy requirements. WMG will assist in process work for production.

The front-wheel driven concept uses proprietary suspension, brakes and steering from a current production model. The weight of the design is 480 kg, but will see an increase with the addition of battery packs which will be placed in between the rear wheels. D2H is planning on a low-voltage powertrain that will run for at least 12 hours of continuous use.

With the reduction in emissions, weight and non-recyclable parts, the aim of the design is to maximise efficiency and safety, while maintaining its utilitarian purpose. The tuk tuk has been one of the key members of public transport, majorly in India, South-East Asian countries, and South Africa. The idea behind this concept is to take that cute gem of our hearts and turn it into a more cost-effective and greener alternative to other modes of public transportation.

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