The resourcefulness of a Cuban mechanic in creating a coal-powered car has garnered international media coverage amid Cuba's severe fuel crisis.
According to a Reuters report, Juan Carlos Pino, a 56-year-old mechanic from Aguacate in Mayabeque province, successfully adapted a car to run on charcoal as an alternative energy source to gasoline.
The vehicle, a 1980 Polish model, was retrofitted with a system crafted from recycled components, enabling it to generate gas from charcoal combustion to power the engine.
The report highlights that the car can reach speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour and has covered significant distances, presenting it as a viable alternative in response to the country's fuel shortages.
Pino himself explained that the project was born out of necessity to maintain mobility where gasoline is scarce and expensive, especially in the black market.
The entire system was assembled using reused materials, including an adapted tank and an improvised filtration system, showcasing the creativity many Cubans employ to navigate daily challenges.
The vehicle has sparked interest both within Cuba and internationally, serving as a symbol of popular ingenuity in the face of an energy crisis.
Fuel shortages remain a critical issue on the island, with limited distribution and high prices forcing many citizens to seek alternatives to ensure transportation and daily activities.
Cuban Coal-Powered Car Innovation: Key Insights
Who created the coal-powered car in Cuba?
The coal-powered car was created by Juan Carlos Pino, a 56-year-old mechanic from Aguacate, Mayabeque province.
How does the coal-powered car function?
The car is equipped with a system made from recycled parts that generates gas from the combustion of charcoal to fuel the engine.
What challenges prompted the creation of the coal-powered car in Cuba?
The creation was driven by the need to maintain mobility amid limited and costly gasoline supplies in Cuba.