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A solar-powered, ultra-light vehicle designed for rural travel has made its public debut in Brittany.
The Scaramobile, a cross between a car and a bicycle, was unveiled in late January along the Boulevard de la Mer in Penvénan, Côtes-d’Armor.
Its 6.5m² of adjustable solar panels drew immediate attention from passers-by.
Unlike conventional electric cars, the Scaramobile is designed to run largely on its own power, limiting the need for regular charging.
Inventor Denis Baulier developed the project five years ago to fill a gap in rural transport.
“Cities now have many alternative vehicles, but rural areas have been forgotten,” he said. “This vehicle is designed for everyday use, endurance, reliability and carrying capacity, all in a lightweight design.”
Testing in winter was deliberate. “We want it to work from January 1 to December 31,” Mr Baulier said, adding that Brittany’s often cloudy skies would test the solar panels’ efficiency.
The Scaramobile runs on 1,400 watts of solar energy.
It weighs around 600kg without batteries and can reach 90km/h. Many light vehicles are limited to 45km/h, which discourages drivers from switching from conventional cars.
Mr Baulier said travelling slightly slower adds less than two minutes to a typical 25km journey.
The vehicle also breaks traditional design rules.
There is no steering wheel – instead it is driven by a joystick.
Pedals do not power the wheels directly but generate electricity for the motor or batteries. Users can choose how much effort to provide, including none at all.
The Scaramobile can carry up to three people or cargo, and its modular bodywork adapts to different uses.
Mr Baulier also designed it for ease of repair – the modular structure allows components to be replaced over time.
The prototype is the first of three. Mr Baulier said more research is needed, including work with universities. He also pointed to events such as the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge in Australia, a 3,000km solar-powered car race, as a platform for testing innovations.
Pricing is not yet decided. Mr Baulier said it is too early to predict commercial viability, but he hopes the Scaramobile will offer a robust, energy-efficient alternative for rural areas and beyond.
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