by What would you do if you lived in a place where war constantly cut off the electricity supply? How do you manage your phone, laptop, fridge or TV when the network is down?
This is the dilemma that led an engineer to invent an exercise bike that can provide backup power in an emergency. His name is Jonas Navikas and he is the CEO of Tukas EV, a Lithuanian startup that makes electric vehicles and energy storage solutions.
Shocked by the situation in Ukraine, Jonas Navikas, CEO of Lithuanian startup Tukas EV, invented exercise bikes that can use human energy for crisis situations. (Tukas EV)
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How it all started
Navikas was appalled by the situation in Ukraine, where people had to share a single power generator to charge their phones while the country's infrastructure was being bombed. He realized that access to electricity is vital to human survival and comfort, especially in times of crisis. He also noticed that many people had exercise bikes at home, but they weren't using them for anything other than fitness.
That's when the light bulb went off and he came up with the idea for the HR Bank, an exercise bike that captures the energy you generate while pedaling and stores it as a backup power source for household appliances and appliances.
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Exercise bikes were invented to capture energy from pedaling. (Tukas EV)
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How does it work
The HR Bank is basically a huge power bank with pedals and a handle. It converts the kinetic energy generated by your legs into electricity and then stores it in a 2 kWh battery.
The HR Bank can be used as an external battery, charged from the sun or the mains, or as an independent power source generated by pedaling.
It can power a TV for two days, a refrigerator for three days or charge many small devices for daily use.
It can also be transported, adjusted to different heights and angles, and even turned into a workstation by attaching a table.
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HR Bank was able to generate enough power to charge a TV for two days. (Tukas EV)
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Who needs electricity from exercise?
HR Bank is designed not only for those who need electricity during emergencies such as natural disasters or wars, but also for urban dwellers who want a reliable source of clean energy.
Navikas believes that electrical infrastructure is extremely fragile when faced with the challenges of extreme events such as war, and therefore access to alternative sources of energy becomes critical to ensure human security and well-being.
HR Bank is currently available for pre-order on the company's websiteStarting at $3100. Tukas EV plans to deliver the product in early 2024.
Kurt's key
HR Bank is quite a remarkable invention that combines fitness and energy production in one device. However, it's more than just an exercise bike – it can be for many people in war-torn areas.
It also shows how human ingenuity can solve problems and create opportunities in extremely difficult situations such as war. It also shows how renewable energy sources can be integrated into our daily lives and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.
How do you feel about HR Bank as a solution for power outages and emergencies? Do you think it's worth the price and effort? Notify us by email Cyberguy.com/Contact.
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