Getting stuck in traffic during an emergency evacuation can potentially become a life or death situation (if anyone has seen the movie,
Deep Impact, visualize that congested highway scene at the very end . . .). So, when you plan your emergency evacuation plan, you may want to consider a couple modes of alternate transportation in case the roadways are blocked.
The guys at
Gizmag suggest that research on current road infrastructures indicates that our roads cannot accommodate everyone driving full-sized cars. This is because as populations increase, and developing nations grow, more people are able to purchase full-sized cars. More people with full-sized cars=more traffic on the road.
Since expanding roadways costs a lot of money and a lot of time, some companies are turning to alternative brands of transportation—referred to as
last mile transport vehicles—to decrease congestion on the roads. Major car companies are also creating concept cars with additional space to include a last mile transport vehicle inside. So, if you are in traffic you can just pop out your last mile transport vehicle from your trunk and weave through the cars to get to work.
But what are these last mile transport vehicles like?
The Yikebike –this 25.4 pound miniature electric bike can travel 9.3 miles at 15 mph per charge. Simply fold it up and store it in your trunk or carry it with you as you evacuate. Check out this video to see the Yike Bike in action:
The Zeit Eco Electric Scooter—traveling at 15 mph, this scooter has an aluminum frame with a side pocket for storage. According to its creators, “the 250 - 350 W brushless geared hub motor gets its power from a 350 Wh LiFePO4 battery.” The battery can be charged from a home outlet!
Gizmag also highlights some futuristic evacuation vehicles that scientists and automobile companies are currently developing. Check out these articles on Electro Hydrodynamic Thrusts that could one day become a silent airplane. Also take a look at the completely impractical (but kind of awesome) Off Road Limo and Diablo jeep.
To see more developing last mile transport vehicles check out this article:
http://www.gizmag.com/yikebike-ev-lighter-models-greater-range/26893/?utm_source=Gizmag+Subscribers&utm_campaign=a3b03218e6-UA-2235360-4&utm_medium=email
And before you get your last mile transport vehicle, learn
how to make an emergency car kit to keep yourself safe and prepared while on the road.
--Angela
3 comments
Kam Carver
I would not want to purchase transportation that only goes 9 miles and hope to evacuate in an emergency. I have an adult tricycle with a basket for “stuff” that will go as far as I need to go. Thanks for thinking of this but electric scooters are not such a terrific thing for evacuations.
David Henard
How about a bicycle? No charging required.
David
Everything starts with a budget! A used bike rack, 4 bicycles and 2 kid trailers will cost less than a single electric contraption and will attract much less attention from the unprepared. They are also small and light enough to hand over fences and carry across waterways, easy to repair, and fun for everyday uses.