Are solar rickshaws commercially viable?
It costs $1,000 to convert a cycle rickshaw into a solar rickshaw. And when does one recover this investment? This $1,000 will probably be paid off in two years and you will still have your solar equipment. What about other alternative fuels like hydrogen? Hydrogen is a naughty gas. It burns violently. It’s not a good idea to put it in people’s cars. But several big companies are pushing for it. It suits major oil companies. It’s a complex form of power and only the major oil companies can handle it. What about CNG? It reduces emission, but does nothing for global warming. It still produces greenhouse gases. And wind power? It’s very important, but not good for India. There is too little wind here. What role will you play if solar vehicles get into commercial production? None. I have no financial interest in it. But I will be happy to provide guidance if someone sought it.