TU/ecomotive making “most circular car” a reality
A fully recyclable and light-weight electric car made from flax and sugar – what had been no more than a concept a few months ago, has now grown into a prototype. Awaiting certification, the makers from the TU Eindhoven will then take it on tour in Europe.
When Noah had first been conceived, not much was known but the concept has developed since. Now dubbed the “world’s most circular electric car” due to the nature of its recyclable materials and a “fuel economy” of 1:300, the students will take it on tour to inspire others.
Built by team TU/ecomotive, Noah is an electric two seater built for city driving with its top speed of 110 kph. The battery is super light with 60 kilos but said to last for 240 kilometres nonetheless. Hence the 1:300 ratio that equals 300 kilometres to 1 litre of petrol, say TU/ecomotive. This range is also down to the low weight of Noah. Without batteries Noah weighs 360 kg, which is less than half that of comparable production cars. The total weight is 420 kg.
This is also due to the use of bio plastic, which can be made from sugar. The chassis and the interior are made of strong sandwich panels, mixing said bioplastic and flax fibre. The latter also forms the body, adding a bio-based resin. Moreover, TU/ecomotive claim that these bio and light-weight materials require up to six times less energy to produce than materials such as aluminum or carbon. Still, the students say they managed to create a crumple-zone-like structure.
Therefore the prototype awaits certification for use on public roads. Once complete, they will start touring Europe with their electric car. However, their aim is to set an example and to promote the circular economy. Production plans have not been made.
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