abstract
- In this study, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions in autorickshaws used for transporting passengers in a flat Caribbean region were determined. Six vehicles were instrumented and monitored under actual conditions for 3 months. Their location, speed, and fuel consumption were recorded. Additional tests were conducted to determine their drag (~0.47) and rolling resistance coefficients (0.02 and 0.03, for paved and unpaved roads, respectively). Results showed that the autorickshaws' fuel consumption (3.18 L/100 km) and CO2 emissions (79 CO2 g/km) are smaller than the most efficient commercial gasoline-fueled light-duty vehicle. This result is due to small engine size (~10 HP) and reduced curb vehicular weight (337 kg). This fact makes them appropriate for short-distance travels at low speeds (<40 km/h) for transporting people and goods under circumstances where safety is not an issue. Electrification of these vehicles will address their main drawbacks (poor energy efficiency and emissions of air pollutants).