The velomobile combines bicycle efficiency with automotive-style weather protection, creating a human-powered vehicle capable of sustained 28 MPH speeds. This aerodynamic tricycle enclosed in a lightweight shell offers a practical alternative to car commuting for those seeking zero-fuel transportation with protection from sun, rain, and cold.
Velomobile Specifications
- Type: Enclosed recumbent tricycle
- Top Speed: Up to 28 MPH on flat ground
- Power Source: Human pedal power (electric assist optional)
- Weather Protection: Full enclosure shields from sun, rain, and cold
- Cargo Capacity: Room for work clothes, belongings, and beverage
- Starting Price: Around $8,500
Velomobile Design
Photo Credit: Undercover Cycling
Commuting Advantages
- Speed Maintenance: Aerodynamic shell makes high speeds easier to sustain than on regular bicycles
- Professional Appearance: Arrive at work in business attire without sweat-soaked clothes
- All-Weather Use: Enclosed design enables year-round commuting
- Zero Fuel Cost: Eliminates gas expenses entirely
- Exercise Built In: Daily commute provides cardiovascular workout
Video Tour
Lessons from Velomobile Transportation
- Aerodynamics Multiply Efficiency: Streamlined shells dramatically reduce wind resistance compared to upright bicycles
- Weather Doesn’t Stop Cycling: Enclosed vehicles enable year-round human-powered commuting
- Electric Assist Extends Range: Optional motors help with hills and longer distances
- Car Costs Add Up: Purchase price recovers quickly versus ongoing vehicle expenses
- Fitness Comes Free: Daily transportation doubles as exercise
Related Transportation
You can share this using the e-mail and social media re-share buttons below. Thanks!
If you enjoyed this you’ll LOVE our Free Daily Tiny House Newsletter with even more!
Also, try our Tiny Houses For Sale Newsletter!
More Like This: Tiny Houses | Van Life
See The Latest: Go Back Home to See Our Latest Tiny Houses
This post may contain affiliate links and/or sponsored content.
The following two tabs change content below.
Alex
Alex Pino is the founder of Tiny House Talk, a leading resource on tiny homes and simple living since 2009. He helps readers discover unique homes, connect with builders, and explore alternative living.
I think this would be so fun/cool with an electric motor installed on it!
28mph? In the Netherlands there is a guy who pedals along with 63 kmh… He can travel up to 70 kmh. It can be seen on youtube, filmed by a policecar, including interview and so on…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?hl=en&v=YJ5Qertz2OA&gl=US
spoken in Dutch of course….
We have more of these recumbent trikes on pedalpower over here!