Naturmobil

The Naturmobil is a horse-powered vehicle for travel on paved roads.^[1][2] The vehicle is controlled by a driver in a similar way to a motor-driven vehicle, with the horse inside the vehicle on a treadmill. It weighs 300 kg (660 lb), or probably around 700 kg (1,500 lb) with the horse. It cruises at about 20 km/h (12 mph), with a top speed of about 80 km/h (50 mph). The treadmill also charges batteries which will power the vehicle if the horse needs a break.^[3][2]

The vehicle was invented by Abdolhadi Mirhejazi, an Iranian engineer, who says "the Naturemobil was developed with the safety and welfare of the animal in mind"^[1]. At least one veterinarian, Dr. Matt Pietrak, has concerns for the horse's wellbeing while powering the vehicle.^[4]

Notes and references

1. ^ ^{a b} "Naturmobil: Car runs on [real] "horse power"!" (web). New article. autoworld.wordpress.com. May 8, 2008. http://autoworld.wordpress.com/2008/05/05/naturmobil-car-runs-on-realy-%E2%80%98horse-power%E2%80%99/. Retrieved 2008-05-08. 
2. ^ ^{a b} Dharmarajan, Subramani (May 01, 2008). "Naturmobil: Cart runs on ‘horse power’" (web). News article. Xpress News. http://www.xpress4me.com/news/uae/dubai/20007183.html. Retrieved 2008-05-08. 
3. ^ Safford, Matt (May 7, 2008). "Naturmobil Horse Car Takes Horse Power to New Low" (web). gearlog.com. http://www.gearlog.com/2008/05/naturmobil_horse_car_takes_hor.php. Retrieved 2008-05-08. 
4. ^ McLennan, Paul. "Vet bridles at truck" (web). News Article. 7days. http://www.7days.ae/en/2008/05/05/vet-bridles-at-truck.html. Retrieved 2008-05-08. 

External links

• Fleethorse
• Naturmobil: The One-Horsepower Vehicle with a Twist, by Michael Graham Richard, Gatineau, Canada on 05. 6.08 at treehugger.com (Images)