In an effort to slow global warming, a solar-powered trailer set out on a four-year journey last month that would take it to 90 nations and six continents.
The Solar Butterfly trailer, so named because of its set of 80 square metres of solar panel-covered “wings” that power the Tesla Model X pulling it, started its journey amidst magnificent mountain vistas at the UN building in Geneva, Switzerland.
This project’s first phase entails a six-month, 22,000-kilometer (13,670-mile) tour across 32 European countries, with the majority of the funding coming from corporate sponsors.
The SolarButterfly’s creator, Louis Palmer, claims that the journey’s goal is to draw attention to existing solutions to the climate crisis and motivate others to take action.
The message, according to Palmer, is that it is possible to save the planet.
During the epidemic, Palmer was stranded at home in Lucerne, Switzerland, and came up with the idea for the SolarButterfly.
The 50-year-old former teacher has experience travelling responsibly; in 2007, he made history by driving a solar-powered car around the world throughout a 17-month, 32,000-mile expedition called “SolarTaxi.”
The ultralight foam-like substance, developed in collaboration with the engineering department at the University of Lucerne, was used to build the SolarButterfly, which is 21 metres square (226 square feet).
The trailer, which can accommodate four people, has a tiny kitchen, a bathroom with a toilet and a shower, and a versatile area that functions as a studio, conference room, and bedroom. Other eco-friendly aspects of the building include a solar-heated water system, a rainwater collection and purification system, and linens and mattresses constructed of biodegradable materials.
