The prototype of the horseless e-crew: electric cars will replace horse-drawn carriages

At the New York Auto Show, which runs through April 27, Creative Workshop has officially unveiled a prototype horseless e-crew, an all-electric car designed to replace touring horse-drawn carriages in New York City. The debut of the electric car in the retro style is another argument against the exploitation of animals in the city. The cost of the novelty is about 450,000 dollars. The prototype e-crew is more expensive than the most expensive electric car Tesla, but in the case of mass production, the price should be reduced to 150-170 thousand.

“This is an open design with a removable top to improve the visibility of passengers. Feather elements emphasize the design of the era. Oversized windshield, large open wheels, characteristic headlights and, of course, brass. All of this definitely reflects and celebrates an era that has amazing historical significance for New York City and motorists, said Jason Wenig, car designer, president and founder of Creative Workshop.

The electric vehicle's energy source is a lithium-ion battery designed to run about 100 miles (160 km) without recharging. The duration of the process is not yet known, but it can be assumed that it will take several hours and even a full day to “fill the tank” when charging from a conventional outlet. The brass-era style vehicle is equipped with rear-wheel drive and can reach a top speed of up to 30 mph (48 km/h). The passenger will be able to accommodate up to 8 people, of course, if the electric crew will be as popular as the horse.



The electric car was commissioned by NYClass, a nonprofit organization fighting to "end the inhumane horse-drawn industry in New York City." According to the organization, horses are operated in dangerous conditions in the city, should be removed from the streets to shelters and replaced with horseless electric carriages.

The presence of horses in the city is a controversial issue that New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio promised to resolve during the 2013 election race. The pledge to end horse exploitation has not yet been fulfilled, but the mayor argues it is just a matter of priorities and timelines.

However, in New York there are opponents of e-crews. Forty million people visit Central Park each year, including runners, cyclists, children and dog owners. Adding cars to this mix will make the park less safe for everyone and increase congestion, said Doug Blonsky, director of the park.

Source: facepla.net