Different Strokes: New Lower-Pollution Auto Rickshaw Engines Could Save Lives and Curb Climate Change [Slide Show]
The two-stroke rickshaw, although convenient in traffic-snarled cities, is a toxic nuisance--but new engines could clean up its act
![Different Strokes: New Lower-Pollution Auto Rickshaw Engines Could Save Lives and Curb Climate Change [Slide Show]](https://www.scientificamerican.com/sciam/cache/file/79E4E068-8D36-4569-A75A59DC54822B1F.jpg?w=590&h=393)
Different Strokes: New Lower-Pollution Auto Rickshaw Engines Could Save Lives and Curb Climate Change [Slide Show]
- IT'S A (NATURAL) GAS: Alternative fuels such as compressed natural gas (CNG) can help cut soot emissions from auto-rickshaws, as demonstrated via air pollution levels in cities that have made the switch, such as Delhi and Mumbai. Local natural gas availability and price remain a challenge, however. EMBARQ / Dave K. Cooper
- URBAN NEEDS: Demand for public transport in countries such as India exceeds supply as rural residents migrate to densely packed cities, such as Mumbai. India's urban population is expected to swell to 590 million by 2030, up from 340 million in 2008. For new arrivals, rickshaws provide an immediate, short-distance transportation solution, particularly in places without mass transit. Rickshaws are also more adept at navigating crowded city streets, weaving in and out of pedestrians and traffic more nimbly than other vehicles. EMBARQ / Dave K. Cooper
