Thailand unveils solar-powered bus

BANGKOK, Dec 26 (TNA) - Thailand's first solar-powered bus was announced Tuesday with fanfare suggesting it not only is suitable for public transport in cities, but is also noise- and air-pollution free.

Dr. Anond Bunyaratvej, the secretary-general of the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), presided at a press conference to announce the success of developing the country's first solar-powered bus.

Sponsored by NRCT, the environmental friendly bus was developed by Air Marshal Morakot Charnsomruad and his research team.

The six-wheel bus has 20 passenger seats and is seven metres in length. Installed with 10 solar cell panels 1.5 x 0.66 metres on its roof, the cells produce a maximum capacity of 1,200 watts, while the unit is coupled with a 6-volt battery.

Especially designed for passenger service in city zone, the vehicle has a maximum speed of 60 kilometres per hour, an 18,000 BTU air conditioning system, and a radio and TV system. When there is no sunlight, a spare battery system is installed for backup.

Marshal Morakot said that the solar bus is a research project in line with King Bhumibol Adulyadej's initiative in energy saving and envionmental protection. While oil prices are soaring, this type of public transport is quite suitable for city commuting, he said.

The prototype cost Bt8.5 million, Marshal Morakot said, but produced commercially, it may cost as little as Bt 3 million.

The NRCT plans to present the success of this project to HM the King and is considering the feasibility of putting it in full public service.

TNA