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Ecocabs Are a New Twist on Bicycle Rickshaws
Sep 04 2008 by Emily Hansen
9/4/08
Green Transportation Eases Congestion in Dublin
I’ve always been intrigued by public transportation here in the U.S. and around the world: subways and taxis, light rails and trolleys, bus systems, bicycles or rickshaws. Ecocabs, an interesting take on bicycle rickshaws, are a new approach to public transportation, and they’re not only eco-friendly but wallet-friendly, too.
Ecocabs can be found in Dublin, Ireland, and are a new-age bicycle rickshaw with a full tilt “ad-wrap” around the back that can’t be ignored. The clever part about Ecocabs is that the advertising pays for the vehicle and the driver's salary, so the trip is entirely free to the passengers. Up to three passengers can fit in the back of an Ecocab, but the green transportation is only available in the most congested part of Dublin.
I guess another benefit is that the fit Ecocab drivers are probably a little more fun to look at than some of the New York City cabbies that I’ve risked my life with.
Some big companies, such as 7Up and Yoplait, have signed up for this highly visible, mobile, unique marketing medium. From a marketing perspective, it’s a lot better than those highly mobile ads that are pasted to the bottom of airport security trays.
As a suburb-dweller, I think my chances of seeing Ecocabs in my community are pretty slim. But imagine the possibilities: We could eliminate shorter bus rides and decrease emissions in the car pool lane by using Ecocabs for all “in-neighborhood” students. And neighborhood parents could take turns pedaling the kids to school. I think it could work, at least until it snows.
