1.1 Introduction
A solar powered tricycle is a three-wheeled vehicle that uses solar energy as its primary source of propulsion, converting sunlight into electrical energy through photovoltaic cells to drive an electric motor (Oluwalana & Grzesik, 2025). Transportation is a critical component of socioeconomic development, as it facilitates the movement of people and goods and supports commercial and daily activities. A tricycle is a three wheeled motorized vehicle commonly used for short distance transportation, especially in developing countries where it serves as an affordable and flexible means of mobility for passengers and small scale goods.
Traditionally, tricycles are powered by internal combustion engines that rely on fossil fuels, which are associated with high operational costs, environmental pollution, and health related challenges. A solar powered tricycle is defined as a three wheeled vehicle that utilizes solar energy, converted through photovoltaic panels into electrical energy, to power an electric motor either directly or through an energy storage system such as batteries (Kalogirou, 2014; Sukamongkol et al., 2016).
This chapter will address the background information that motivated this study, the challenges that prompted it, its aim, and its objectives as a preface to subsequent sections of the study. Additional factors include the study's significance, scope, limitations, and the definition of technical terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Tricycles have emerged as one of the most commonly used modes of transportation for short distance travel due to their relatively low cost, maneuverability, and ease of operation. However, the majority of tricycles in use today are powered by internal combustion engines that rely on fossil fuels. According to the International Energy Agency, the transport sector remains one of the largest consumers of fossil fuels and a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, which has raised serious environmental and sustainability concerns (IEA, 2022).
The continuous use of fossil fuel powered tricycles has been reported that it contributes significantly to air pollution, noise pollution, and increased carbon emissions, especially in densely populated urban areas. The United Nations Environment Programme reported that emissions from small and medium scale vehicles negatively affect air quality and public health, leading to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases (UNEP, 2021). In addition to environmental issues, rising fuel prices and frequent engine maintenance have increased the operational cost of tricycles, placing a heavy financial burden on operators who depend on them as a primary source of livelihood.
The global push toward renewable energy adoption has intensified interest in alternative energy powered transportation systems. Solar energy, derived from sunlight and converted into electrical energy using photovoltaic technology, is widely regarded as a clean, renewable, and sustainable energy source. Kalogirou stated that solar energy technologies have advanced significantly over the years, making them more efficient and suitable for various engineering applications, including transportation systems (Kalogirou, 2014). Similarly, the integration of photovoltaic systems with energy storage technologies has improved the feasibility of solar powered mobility solutions, particularly in regions with high solar irradiance (Akinyele et al., 2020).
Electric vehicles have been identified as a viable alternative to conventional fuel powered vehicles due to their low emissions and higher energy efficiency. Sukamongkol et al. affirmed that solar powered electric vehicles reduce dependence on fossil fuels and minimize environmental impact by utilizing renewable energy directly or through battery storage systems (Sukamongkol et al., 2016).
The first serious efforts to develop solar-powered vehicles began in the late 20th century, driven by the oil crises and growing environmental awareness. As researchers sought more practical applications of solar technology, attention shifted to smaller vehicles, including tricycles, bicycles, and motorcycles. It was reported that solar tricycles became increasingly attractive in regions where conventional fuel is expensive and access to electricity is limited. The rising cost of fossil fuels and the negative environmental impact associated with their use have made alternative energy transportation systems a priority for sustainable development. They reported that solar energy is one of the most promising renewable sources, capable of powering small-scale vehicles efficiently when integrated with proper electrical and mechanical systems (Oluwalana and Grzesik, 2025). This study is set against the backdrop of the increasing demand for environmentally friendly transportation solutions, rising fuel costs, and the need to harness renewable energy for sustainable mobility.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that the growing reliance on fossil fuel powered transportation continues to present significant economic, environmental, and social challenges, particularly in developing countries where fuel costs are unstable and income levels are relatively low. Conventional tricycles, which serve as a major means of transportation for short distance mobility and commercial activities, depend largely on petrol driven internal combustion engines that emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide (IEA, 2022; UNEP, 2021).
Additionally, the global shift toward sustainable development has intensified the demand for clean and renewable energy sources as fossil fuel reserves continue to decline and environmental degradation worsens. Solar energy is a renewable, environmentally friendly, and widely available energy source, particularly in tropical regions with abundant sunlight (Kalogirou, 2014).
Furthermore, conventional tricycles are generally designed without adequate consideration for energy efficiency, environmental impact, or long term sustainability. The lack of affordable and locally designed solar powered tricycles has hindered the widespread adoption of cleaner transportation alternatives, reinforcing continued dependence on fossil fuels (Sukamongkol et al., 2016; Akinyele et al., 2020). It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to design and construct a solar powered tricycle as a sustainable alternative to conventional fuel powered tricycles.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of this study is to design, develop, and construct a functional solar powered tricycle that is efficient, affordable, and environmentally sustainable for use in Nigeria. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To create a sustainable and eco-friendly tricycle powered entirely by solar energy.
- To develop an efficient solar energy storage and management system for consistent tricycle operation.
- To design a lightweight, durable, and ergonomically suitable tricycle frame for enhanced performance.
- To construct a functional prototype of the solar-powered tricycle for real-world testing and evaluation.
- To develop a cost-effective model that demonstrates the feasibility of solar energy in small-scale transportation.
1.5 Significance of Study
It is believed that at the completion of the study, this project will enable local manufacturers to produce low-cost, solar-powered vehicles. The study will also give commuters an affordable and environmentally friendly mode of transport.
Furthermore, the research will contribute to technological innovation, promote the adoption of renewable energy in Nigeria, and serve as a reference for future researchers and engineers in renewable transportation.
Lastly, the study will equip researchers and engineering students with practical knowledge of renewable energy vehicle design.
1.6 Scope of Study
The scope of this research is focused on the design, development, and testing of a solar powered tricycle within Lagos State, Nigeria, using local materials and suppliers. The prototype will be evaluated for efficiency, durability, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability under urban and semi-urban conditions typical of Lagos.
1.7 Limitations of the Study
The study was limited by factors such as the availability of high-efficiency solar panels, battery capacity, and access to advanced fabrication tools.
The project was also constrained by financial and time limitations and the need to rely on local components for construction.
1.8 Definition of Terms
Tricycle:
A tricycle is a three wheeled motorized vehicle widely used for short distance transportation of passengers and goods, particularly in developing countries. It is valued for its affordability, maneuverability, and ease of operation in urban and semi urban areas. According to Momoh and Olatunji (2018), tricycles serve as an important means of livelihood for operators, while providing flexible transport solutions where public transportation is limited.
Solar Powered Tricycle:
A solar powered tricycle is defined as a three wheeled vehicle that uses solar energy, captured through photovoltaic panels, to generate electrical power for its propulsion system. The electrical energy is either used directly to power an electric motor or stored in batteries for later use. Sukamongkol et al. (2016) stated that solar powered tricycles offer a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional fuel powered tricycles by reducing emissions, lowering operational costs, and utilizing renewable energy.
Photovoltaic (PV) Panels:
Photovoltaic panels are devices that convert sunlight directly into electricity using semiconductor materials. According to Kalogirou (2014), PV panels are a critical component in solar powered vehicles, as they provide the primary source of renewable energy for electric propulsion systems. Their efficiency, placement, and orientation significantly affect the overall performance of solar powered transportation.
Battery Storage System:
A battery storage system is a component that stores electrical energy generated by solar panels for use when sunlight is insufficient or unavailable. Akinyele et al. (2020) affirmed that efficient battery systems are essential in solar powered vehicles to ensure continuous operation, increase travel range, and provide reliability under varying environmental conditions.
Electric Motor:
An electric motor is a device that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to drive the tricycle's wheels. According to Sukamongkol et al. (2016), the motor's performance is dependent on the power supplied by the battery and solar panels, and it determines the tricycle's speed, torque, and overall efficiency.
Renewable Energy:
Renewable energy is energy derived from naturally replenished sources such as sunlight, wind, and water. Kalogirou (2014) contended that renewable energy is a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, and its integration into transportation systems reduces environmental pollution and dependence on non renewable resources.
Sustainability:
Sustainability in transportation refers to the ability to provide efficient and reliable mobility solutions without causing long term harm to the environment, depleting natural resources, or compromising social and economic well being. Akinyele et al. (2020) reported that sustainable transportation systems promote energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and support the principles of environmental stewardship.
Operational Efficiency:
Operational efficiency is the measure of how effectively a vehicle performs its intended function with minimal energy consumption, maintenance, and cost. Momoh and Olatunji (2018) stated that improving operational efficiency in solar powered tricycles involves optimizing energy capture, storage, and motor performance to ensure reliable, cost effective, and sustainable transportation.
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