Pametna električna samokolnica Karjola - zlato priznanje za inovativnostTadej Kreft

Karjola Electric Wheelbarrow Awarded Gold for Innovation

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When I turned on the radio that afternoon, I had no idea how important the news I was about to hear would be. At first, I didn’t even realize what they were talking about, but then I recognized Marko’s voice. I remembered that today was the awards ceremony for innovations by the North Primorska Chamber of Commerce in Nova Gorica. I quickly “Googled” it and, filled with excitement, discovered that Karjola had received the gold award. Five gold awards were given, and among them was our Karjola. This means that it qualifies for the highest national awards, which will be presented at the Day of Innovation at Brdo pri Ljubljani.

 

Gold Award for Innovation to Karjola Smart Electric Wheelbarrow

 

I read the news twice and was very happy. Happy for the team that put so much effort, work, and energy into bringing Karjola to life. Happy for the innovator Marko, who received confirmation that his idea, which he nurtured and developed, had reached an important milestone. Recognition that his idea is good, interesting, and above all, very useful. So many years of effort and sacrifice, sometimes feeling like you’re fighting a losing battle, and then… one plaque, an award, and you rise like a phoenix from the ashes, full of strength, momentum, and energy.

And you know it’s not over yet, that there’s still plenty of room to grow, that we can achieve so much more, and most importantly, that our customers will also recognize the quality of Slovenian craftsmanship and knowledge.

We are very proud of this award, and it means a lot to us. The competition was very tough. Among many well-established companies with entire teams of experts and financial resources, the jury recognized the usefulness of Karjola, which was born in a garage, slowly developed, grew, and is still making its way into the world.

Memories took me back to the past, from the first meeting when Marko presented his idea, to assembling the team, from the first plan of Karjola to its final implementation. To the moments when we faced challenges and doubts but persevered. What seemed so impossible at the beginning today has a recognizable brand.

We have experienced so many wonderful moments because of Karjola. From the first races with a wheelbarrow, albeit an ordinary one. At that time, we organized a picnic at Bizjak’s and for the first time introduced our electric intuitive Karjola to friends and acquaintances. Although still in its infancy, the sensor wasn’t working yet, the program wasn’t finished, and just before the presentation, the boys in the workshop had the drive electronics burn out. Everyone was eagerly waiting to try this novelty, and in the end, the boys managed to bring a functioning Karjola.

That was the first time I felt deep respect for these young men who, while we were having fun at the picnic, worked hard so that we could proudly present Karjola.

The next time, when Karjola was more refined and had its distinctive orange color and operated in the so-called tractor mode, which means the wheelbarrow moves forward at a constant speed, we decided to shoot a video and make a promotional brochure. I will never forget that day. Although the day was long and tiring, it was interesting and enjoyable to work with the team of filmmakers, photographers, actors, and even a makeup artist who took care of our appearance.

Today, Karjola has three operating modes: intuitive mode, cruise control, and tractor mode, and when going downhill, it can brake automatically.

Blockhapp

Motorized Wheelbarrow Expands the Horizons of Use

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Motorized wheelbarrow – let’s start with an electric bicycle.

Have you ever imagined that an electric bicycle can be a substitute for a car? In cities, that’s exactly what’s happening now. Increasing population, traffic jams, and the tendency to reduce emissions are changing mobility trends. And at the same time, our lifestyle is changing as well. Countries actively support the purchase of e-bikes in various ways.

For example, by providing subsidies to individuals and companies for purchasing a larger number of e-bikes for their employees. Some countries also offer a lower value-added tax on the purchase of e-bikes and on repair & maintenance services.

Due to the possibility of reducing emissions in logistic, delivery services are also focusing on cargo e-bikes.

Can we expect changed trends as a result of electrification in the use of traditional tools, such as a wheelbarrow? Innovation and technological progress enable a new generation of electric wheelbarrows that also bring a new user experience. Mega-trends, such as climate change, give an additional boost to changes. They are associated with pressure for more sustainably oriented economic activities and also for more responsible individual behaviour.

If an electric wheelbarrow replaces tools and devices powered by an internal combustion engine, it helps reduce emissions into the environment. Reduction of noise is also very important for use in urban environments, which is also a good feature of an electric wheelbarrow. Have you ever been stressed on a day off when you wanted to enjoy a quiet morning coffee, but the noise from a neighbouring lawn mower pulled you into a stressful state? Someone was mowing the grass with a motorized lawnmower.

What does a motorised wheelbarrow – an electric wheelbarrow – bring?

 

  1. IT’S SIMPLE – SUITABLE FOR EVERYONE

Due to the significantly greater capacity of the motorized wheelbarrow compared to a manual wheelbarrow, we can expect that the circle of use will expand. A motorized wheelbarrow, especially a single-wheeled one, retains all the good qualities of lighter and simpler tools. It allows high flexibility in work and is user-friendly for everyone due to its simplicity.

An electric wheelbarrow does not require a driver’s license, there is no need to go through a learning process, and it does not require registration. It needs little preparation for use. Similarly, it is very easy to incorporate it into work that requires shorter but frequent intermediate journeys. It also does not require a special shed or garage since it takes up little space. For short trips and smaller transport, it can also replace a heavier tractor or delivery vehicle.

 

  1. MOTORIZED WHEELBARROW IMPROVES PRODUCTIVITY, WHICH BENEFITIS BUSINESSES IN VARIOUS INDUSTRIES

The added propulsion to the wheelbarrow reduces the required effort and increases efficiency, thus enhancing productivity. This indicator is closely monitored by businesses. Because a motor powers the wheelbarrow instead of a person, it reduces fatigue and protects against excessive strain.

Due to these factors, a motorized wheelbarrow helps preserve the health of workers in environments such as construction, landscaping, municipal work, solar power installation, and many more. The electric wheelbarrow can replace the use of regular wheelbarrows and even manual carrying in situations where wheelbarrows were not previously needed. This is especially true because it was challenging to push the manual wheelbarrow uphill, or it required two people for that task.

 

Motorized wheelbarrow is used for solar power instalation.

 

  1. MOTORIZED ELECTRIC WHEELBARROW ENABLES ACHIEVING SUSTAINABLE GOALS FOR INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESSES

The use of an electric wheelbarrow does not generate emissions or noise, thereby assisting businesses and individuals in achieving sustainable goals. Within these goals, there is also a focus on social objectives with greater care for the well-being of employees. Experiences show that employees positively respond to this.

The emphasis on reducing emissions also promotes the electrification of mechanization in agriculture. Here too, due to the increasing need for food production driven by population growth, solutions are sought for a different kind of mechanization. One that will increase productivity and safety in cultivation while reducing the environmental footprint by lowering greenhouse gas emissions. This will be possible to achieved primarily by replacing diesel internal combustion engines with emission-free alternatives. Electric wheelbarrows will likely gradually replace motorized wheelbarrows powered by internal combustion engines.

For an individual, a motorized electric wheelbarrow is an excellent tool to assist in growing one’s own food – vegetables and fruits in their own garden. As an individual, you can easily contribute to emission reduction by buying locally produced food, which requires less transportation and less time in refrigerators.

Even more, emissions can be minimized when you grow your own vegetables and fruits in your garden and orchard. At the same time, you ensure more healthy plant-based food on your plate. This will add to a positive impact on emission reduction. Choosing emission-free tools is an easy step to support efforts against climate change.

 

  1. MOTORIZED WHEELBARROW SUPPORTS THE ACTIVE LIFESTYLE OF THE ELDERLY POPULATION

The motorized wheelbarrow is also a convenient tool for the elderly population. Aging population is one of the significant megatrends of our time. One of the most common hobbies among the elderly is gardening. Surveys indicate that over 70% of individuals aged 65 and above engage in gardening, according to data from some major European countries and the American market.

Gardening has numerous positive effects for the elderly, such as enjoyable outdoor movement, maintaining mobility, motor skills, strength, and endurance. It also provides a sense of well-being due to relaxation and motivation for activity. The motorized wheelbarrow enables independence in work for the elderly, extending the period during which they can engage in hobby activities without assistance. Transitioning to an electric wheelbarrow is therefore a welcome solution for the elderly to enjoy a longer period of being active.

 

Karjola smart motorized wheelbarrow enables eaiser work for the elderly.

 

  1. MOTORIZED WHEELBARROW ENABLES ALTERNATIVE MOTORIZED TRANSPORT OFF THE BEATEN PATH AND INTO HARD-TO-ACCESS TERRAINS

The possibilities for using a motorized wheelbarrow are expanding with innovative additions and various larger containers or attachments. The wheelbarrow is no longer just a tool for transporting lighter loads; it can now carry more weight and volume at once, practically across all terrains. Natural disasters have, in many places, made conventional road transport impossible due to water or landslide damage. In such cases, the motorized wheelbarrow can serve as an alternative for transporting essential goods. It can be driven along edges, grass, and through the forest – off the usual paths.

It is also a convenient means of transport to hard-to-access locations, where structures of solar and small hydroelectric power plants are sometimes located to ensure the most favorable position. These places are difficult to reach for conventional larger machinery. For maintaining such installations, it is occasionally necessary to transport heavier equipment. And in these situations, the motorized electric wheelbarrow proves to be an ideal solution.

Karjola motorized wheelbarrow enables an easy drive outside the beaten paths

 

  1. MOTORIZED WHEELBARROW CAN FUNCTION AS A “POWER BANK”

Undoubtedly, the increased capacity and versatility of the motorized wheelbarrow will allow its application to expand into tasks and activities where a wheelbarrow is not currently common or frequently used. The trend of electrification is increasing the demand for access to electrical energy in various locations, even in unconventional places. In such locations, the electric wheelbarrow can step in as a “power bank” with its powerful batteries. When you comfortably and effortlessly bring food and drinks to a picnic in the middle of a meadow with an electric wheelbarrow, you’ve also provided yourself with a capable power source along the way.

Let’s be surprised.

Sustainable Design is at the Heart of Karjola Smart Electric WheelbarrowBlockhapp d.o.o.

Sustainable by Design – 7 Sustainable Design Principles

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The environmental footprint of a product throughout its life cycle is largely determined at its development and design phase, with research indicating that design accounts for up to 80% of its impact. So how can sustainable design be applied?

Decisions made during the development phase affect the product’s lifespan, the materials it’s made from, its repairability, how much energy it consumes, and how it can be recycled at the end of its life.

Sustainable design principles are important when considering purchasing a product, as most of them not only contribute to reducing its impact on the environment and society, but also goes in hand with the  cost-effectiveness of the purchase.

At Karjola, we aim to support a sustainable society, which is why sustainable principles have been at the heart of our development and design. What principles of circular economy or sustainability do we pursue in the design of the Karjola smart e-wheelbarrow?

 

Elektrische Schubkarre Karjola bei Bienen

Karjola Smart e-Wheelbarrow

 

       1. DURABILITY – LONG LIFETIME

 

Products designed with sustainable principles / principles of circular economy are made for long-term use, rather than promoting consumerism of take-make-use-dispose, with the goal of keeping the product in use for as long as possible. Quality and reliability are key factors in achieving this goal. According to UN-Habitat research, 99% of the things we buy are discarded within 6 months.

Therefore, robustness, quality, and long-term use are the basic principles guiding the design and production of the Karjola smart e- wheelbarrow. A robust frame, thickened container sheet metal, a fully welded construction (without screws), and protection for cables and electronic components inside a steel housing provide the foundation for a long lifespan. Rain and cleaning with water are therefore not a problem.

 

        2.  MODULARITY, EASY MAINTENANCE, AND DECOMMISSIONING

 

Components of a product (when there are multiple components) usually have different lifespans, so they need to be replaced at different times. Modular design allows for easy, separate replacement of individual components. Only the component that is no longer functional is replaced, not the entire product, which extends its usability. Modularity and easy decommissioning into components are also important for reuse and recycling.

The Karjola smart e-wheelbarrow is designed with modularity of individual components in mind.

 

         3. REPAIRABILITY

 

The right to repair is becoming more prominent in European sustainability efforts. The ability to repair is, of course, closely related to the durability of products, design, and availability of components. The key role is also played by economics. To encourage repairs, some countries, such as Austria, have introduced special vouchers that subsidize repairs.

The aforementioned modularity, as well as the economic balance of individual components, contribute to the possibility of repair.

At Karjola, our guiding principle is simplicity of design, which enables easy repairs, while also balancing individual components by value so that none stands out and undermines the economics of repair. With our own service and involvement of a top-notch service network, we put great emphasis on caring for the long lifespan of use.

 

        4.  MATERIAL SELECTION, RECYCLABILITY

 

Material selection has a significant impact on the product’s sustainability footprint. Whether the material comes from recycling or is recyclable or is made from biodegradable materials that will degrade over time. The possibility of recycling is also influenced by the combination of materials since a product made from a single material is much easier to recycle. Recycling is, of course, only the third option, with priority given to further use or use of the product for other purposes. The content of hazardous substances, which could be toxic to humans and the environment when the product is discarded, is also important.

For the frame and container of the Karjola smart e-wheelbarrow, we have chosen steel, which is a durable and strong material and contributes to the product’s long lifespan. This is one of the important principles of design based on the concept of the circular economy. At the end of its life, the steel can be well recycled (98% recyclability) and used for other purposes. Steel products under various influences, such as temperature, also do not emit toxic substances. CO2 emissions are generated during the production of steel, which depends on the use of technologies and energy sources, hence we are exploring options for using steel with a lower carbon footprint.

Choosing lithium-ion batteries for the Karjola smart e- wheelbarrow means that the batteries do not contain heavy metals (such as cadmium or lead) and are therefore not toxic. However, it is better to renew them than dispose of them and return the materials for recycling.

 

Karjola follows sustainable design principles.

Sustainable Design is at the Heart of Karjola Smart e-Wheelbarrow

        5. ENERGY EFFICIENCY

 

In motorized devices, energy efficiency is an important element. Energy efficiency is an important part of sustainable design because it helps reduce emissions. Electric motors are more than three times more efficient than internal combustion engines. In petrol or diesel engines, 70% -80% of energy is lost for other purposes, and only a small portion is actually used for movement. The design is also important to ensure that energy is used only when necessary, not during standby or waiting.

With the main switch turned on, the Karjola smart e-wheelbarrow is ready to operate, but the motor starts when the e-wheelbarrow actually moves. By choosing lithium-ion batteries for the t Karjola smart e-wheelbarrow, we ensure that the batteries maintain a high energy level and have a relatively small loss of stored energy, even when the batteries are not in use. Also, due to the high capacity of the batteries, the need for charging during normal Karjola use is weekly or monthly.

        6. LOW EMISSIONS

 

No greenhouse gas emissions or other emissions are produced when using the e-wheelbarrow, making it suitable for indoor use. If we look at emissions more broadly and consider how electrical energy is generated, emissions are still quite low compared to internal combustion engines due to the high efficiency of the electric motor. Calculations for electric scooters show that emissions are significantly lower even when considering the entire product life cycle, which includes battery production and recycling at the end of its life.

Of course, the lowest emissions are from a regular, non-motorized wheelbarrow, which is the best choice when motor assistance is not needed. However, when added motor power helps protect health and electric drive is an alternative to internal combustion engines, the e-wheelbarrow is the decision for a low/zero-emission transportation tool.

        7. POSITIVE SOCIAL IMPACT

 

Sustainable design also includes the impact on the social environment. The Karjola smart e-wheelbarrow is an easy transportation device that enables older people to significantly ease their work. It empowers them for independent activities in the garden, around the house, and in agriculture. They can continue with these activities in their mature years, which brings them satisfaction and contributes to better physical and mental health. As a study for the UK shows, simply observing plants and nature reduces stress, fear, anger, sadness, as well as blood pressure and muscle tension.

 

Sustainable Design is at the Heart of Karjola Smart Electric Wheelbarrow

Karjola Smart e-Wheelbarrow is Ideal for Gardeners

Therefore, it is not surprising that research shows that gardening is one of the most popular leisure activities in the EU, and interest is also increasing among young people, such as millennials in Germany. Gardening is also one of the most popular leisure activities among Slovenians, right after watching TV.

By growing your own vegetables and fruits in your garden, you can positively contribute to your health and well-being, as well as to the care for our planet. A study under the initiative of the European Commission has shown that transport of fruit and vegetable accounts for 36% of total emissions, twice as much as the production itself.

Our Karjoala smart e-wheelbarrow can help you with your work in the garden. We support your own food growing and care for our planet.

 

Founders of Karjola with the smart electric wheelbarrow Karjola

The Karjola Story – Committed Team and Digital Tools

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The Karjola story: we want to ease the burden for people around the world, particularly for the elderly. Digital tools also help us with this.

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Founders of Karjola with the smart electric wheelbarrow Karjola

How to Choose the Right Electric Wheelbarrow

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An electric wheelbarrow can make your work much easier, hence they are becoming more and more interesting for the gardeners and others. There are models on the market now that are simple, powerful, with a good user experience. That is why they are a very effective tool for your work. The electric motor assistance enables easy work when transporting firewood, compost, sand, in the orchard or vineyard, or when transporting fodder. Work with an electric wheelbarrow is much easier.

 

Easy Transport of Firewoods with the Electric Wheelbarrow

 

It is also a simple device that anyone can use. If you use an ordinary wheelbarrow, you will surely master an electric one. In fact, the work with the electric wheelbarrow will be effortless. A motorized wheelbarrow also comes in handy at the country house, especially if you don’t have other equipment for transporting there.

The models and designs of electrically powered motorized wheelbarrows are very different. The selection thus largely depends on the purpose of use and the terrain where you will mostly use the motorized wheelbarrow.

Electric wheelbarrows are not yet as established as electric bikes, although they in principle solve the same kind of a problem. Thus, many people buy them for the first time. In this guide, we will draw your attention to the key factors and questions you need to answer before choosing the electric wheelbarrow for you. We recommend that you pay attention to the 10 factors that are presented below.

1. Do You Need the Electric Wheelbarrow?

If you use a wheelbarrow only occasionally for a light work, have a flat terrain and do not transport heavier loads, a manual non-motorized wheelbarrow may be quite sufficient for you.

A wheelbarrow is one of the most useful tools, so it is practically in every home.  And often not just one. You can use it everywhere, even if there are no paths, if there are narrow passages or there is not much space available.

However, if you transport things on slopes and have heavier loads, the electric wheelbarrow will be of great benefit.

2. Where and What Will You Use the Electric Wheelbarrow for – What Design is Appropriate?

There are several versions of motorized and electric wheelbarrows available on the market. Models are in the form that preserves the classic shape and maneuverabilityof an ordinary one-wheeled wheelbarrow. But there are also models in the form of carts with two, three, four wheels or tracked.

Which form will be the most suitable for you depends mainly on what you will use it for – how heavy things you will transport and on what terrains. Also, what  the driving distances are, are there a lot of uneven and sloping surfaces.

Models with several wheels or tracked carts relieve the weight on the hands. They can also be used to transport much heavier loads (250 kg and more). However, the possibility of maneuvering and agility is reduced. On uneven surfaces, it is also necessary to be more careful that they do not tip over.

The weight of such motorized wheelbarrows/carts is also higher. If the appearance of the surface and its integrity is important, care must be taken to ensure that the heavy weight and the rugged tire tread do not damage the terrain. 

Reduced agility and handling can be a significant disadvantage if more turning is required, especially on smaller surfaces.

 

The smart electric wheelbarrow is a useful tool for gardeners

Maneuverability is important if you will be using it a lot on terrain with a slope or uneven surfaces. And also if you want to make the work that you normally do with a manual wheelbarrow easier with the help of a motor assistance.  In such a case, the design of a classic single-axle wheelbarrow with an added electric motor is probably the optimal solution. It maintains the good handling and wide usability. The work is easier and more efficient.

3. How Intensively Will You Use the Electric Wheelbarrow – What Battery Capacity is Right for You?

To be autonomous and work comfortably, the battery must be sufficient for your daily needs without intermediate charging. If you use it intensively during the day, transport heavier loads and overcome bigger and longer climbs, you need more battery capacity. How long the battery will support your work depends on its range and on the usage of the motorized wheelbarrow: load weight, slope and the height difference you overcome.

When considering the battery range, it is necessary to take into account its capacity (e.g. 8 Ah) and voltage (e. g. 48 V), which, if multiplied together, gives watt hours (e.g. 384 Wh). These tell how much electricity can actually be stored in the battery.

The battery type is also important, as its energy density and consequently weight is highly dependent on it (lead, LiFePO4, lithium-ion). This significantly affects the overall weight and autonomy of the electric wheelbarrow. Lithium-ion batteries have the best ratio between autonomy (how long they last) and weight. So usually wheelbarrows with lithium-ion batteries are lighter. Lithium-ion batteries also charge faster compared to older battery generations.

 

Smart electric wheelbarrow Karjola enables efortless work

f you use the electric wheelbarrow only occasionally for a small work range, a lower battery range is sufficient. This will also have a beneficial effect on the lower overall weight.

The battery with a capacity of 8 A h (48 V) is by our experience quite sufficient for one working day of intensive use of the electric wheelbarrow, with no intermediate charging needs.

4. What Slopes Do You Need to Overcome – What Power of The Electric Motor is Right for You?

The power of the engine must be sufficient to overcome large slopes and to be able to transport heavy loads. A motor with a nominal power of 500 W will be sufficient for comfortable driving on a slope.

However, it is useful if the power of the motor can be increased for a short time. The short-term power of the engine is important if you get your wheel stuck in a pothole, especially when your electric wheelbarrow is fully loaded.

 

The motorized electric wheelbarrow is particularly useful for the slopes

5.  Downhill Drive – Is Braking Available with the Motorized Wheelbarrow?

The electric wheelbarrow shows its greatest benefit precisely on slopes. In the case of a slope, it is often just as difficult to carry a heavy load down as it is up the slope, or perhaps even more difficult. Therefore, it is highly recommended that the electric wheelbarrow can brake when driving downhill. Braking is an indispensable part for a comfortable and safe downhill ride.

For the ease of use, it is convenient if this braking is automatic. It is also useful if at the same time the electricity is produced and stored back to the batteries.

 

Downhill braking is a must with the electric wheelbarrow

6. How Comfortable is the Reverse Drive?

Maneuvering a full wheelbarrow is not easy. The advantage of a wheelbarrow is that it can be used for small, restricted areas.

Therefore, for comfortable use, it is highly recommended that the electric wheelbarrow has the possibility of a motor assisted reverse drive, so that handling is as flexible as with a manual wheelbarrow.

That also means the run of the wheel is smooth without hindrance even when the electric motor is switched off.

 

Power-assisted reverse driving enables comfortable usage

7. How do You Operate the Electric Wheelbarrow?

For a good user experience, it is important, how complex or how easy is to operate the electric wheelbarrow.

When you’re holding and driving at the same time, it’s difficult to move a lot of levers, so steering should be as easy as possible. This is especially important for the single-axle electric wheelbarrow,  as it is difficult to simultaneously hold the handles and move the speed lever or press the brake.

It is also important that the ride is smooth and that there is no jerking during acceleration. Also, that the wheel runs without hinderance, even when the engine is turned off. As we have said, pay attention to whether the wheelbarrow has the option of the assisted reverse drive, what is the available speed for forward and reverse drive, and how the speed can be adjusted.

 

Smart steering mechanism is very useful with a single - axle electric wheelbarrow

A really comfortable ride is provided by the automatic, smart steering of the electric wheelbarrow. Features such as automatic speed adjustment to the walking pace, automatic speed reduction when turning, wheel blocking when emptying the wheelbarrow forward , the regulation of wheel slip are some of the features that ensure an excellent user experience.

Automatic steering is available with the smart electric wheelbarrow Karjola.

8. Design, Materials, and the Environmental Footprint of the Electric Wheelbarrow

 

Durability & Robustness

In order for the electric wheelbarrow to help you for a long time, it is important to check how the wheelbarrow is assembled. Whether the components are welded or screwed, how the vital parts of the drive are protected (batteries, control unit, cables), as this all influences durability.

Also check the level of protection (IP), whether the materials are durable and their impact on the environment (steel or synthetic materials).  Also examine the simplicity of the design – that the components can be easily replaced if necessary.

Tire

You also need to check the tire. It is desirable to have as much grip as possible. However, too much profile will damage the grass surface. According to our experience, the tractor tire profile is not the best, the winter tire profile has proven to be the optimal. For worry-free use, it is also important that the wheelbarrow has anti-puncture rubber. As with cars, a chain can also be used for very slippery and steep terrain.

Balance

Also check the balance. It is very welcome when you hold the electric wheelbarrow that the feeling of the balance is good, as that of the manual one. Therefore, check how it behaves and what is the balance of an empty and fully loaded electric wheelbarrow.

Recycling and Carbon Footprint

Besides the long-term durability of the electric wheelbarrow – to keep it in use as a long as possible, for the sustainability it is important how easily the components can be recycled. And also, what is the carbon footprint. The footprint arises from the manufacturing of the electric wheelbarrow, from the use, and later, what happens to the batteries and other components at the end of their use.

 

Durability and robustness enable long term use

9.  Accessories Available and Transportability

 

Some electric wheelbarrows offer additional options, such as power connector (to use theelectric power wherever you need it) or USB connection. This allows for the convenience to charge your smartphone, even when you are outside in the garden or in the woods.

Also check if additional attachments are available. A very useful one is the front holder, with which you can increase your efficiency by easily transporting more in one ride.

The front holder increases efficiency of your work

For some models you can use attachments such as snowplough.

An additional solution that is offered with the electric wheelbarrow Karjola is easy transport of the wheelbarrow on the towbar of the car. This is made possible by a special holder.

In order to take the electric wheelbarrow with you to the forest or the field, you don’t need to put it in the trunk or on the trailer. You simply attach it to the tow bar of the car with the holder.

 

How to transport electtric wheelbarrow at the back of the car

10. What Price to Pay for an Electric Wheelbarrow?

How your investment in purchasing the electric wheelbarrow will pay off depends very much on how long and how often you intend to use the electric wheelbarrow.

Due to similar components, the prices of quality electric wheelbarrows are in the price range of quality electric bikes. Quality construction is important for long-term use and a good user experience with an electric wheelbarrow.

You can check for Karjola, the smart electric wheelbarrow in our online store https://karjola.com.

Electric WheelbarrowBlockhapp d.o.o.

Top 7 reasons to Buy an Electric Wheelbarrow

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A wheelbarrow is one of the most useful tools to help in the garden, around the house, in the orchard, in the vineyard and elsewhere. Quite often there is not only one in the use, but several, where each serves its purpose.

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Winter vegetablesMateja Treven

30 Minutes of Working with the Soil Helps to Remove Stress

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Just 30 minutes of gardening can do a lot to reduce stress levels and it also creates a positive mood, as studies have shown. The level of stress is reduced significantly more than if, for example, you were reading a book during this time. Better well-being is not only associated with fresh air, with getting vitamin D in the sun, with a calming nature, but the actual direct contact with the soil is important.

 

There are special types of microbes in the soil that increase the production of serotonin in the body. Serotonin is the hormone of happiness and contentment and therefore contributes to raising your well-being. Such a healing effect of working with the soil was known already in ancient times, but now we know a scientific explanation for it. The microbacteria in the soil are a natural antidepressant that has no side effects and is not addictive, at least not to medications.

 

However, we can become a little addicted or. enthusiastic about our gardens, especially when we observe how well it grows what we have planted.

 

In addition to well-being, where the positive effect lasts up to 3 weeks, these special microbes in the soil can also contribute to improved cognitive function (memory, problem-solving ability) and concentration, which is the subject of further research.

 

Working in the garden / field can therefore help to improve physical and mental health. A small garden has positive effects, even if it is on the balcony. What is important is our own little place, our own garden, where we can grow our plants. Home-grown vegetables and fruits are healthier and are unbelievably more delicious.

 

In these times, just a visit to your garden can contribute to a positive mood, but in many places, you can still pick up something from it.

Intuitive elektric wheelbarrowMateja Treven

The Use of Heavy Machinery Damages the Soil, Intuitive Electric Wheelbarrow Can Help

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The use of heavy machinery in agriculture damages the top layer of the soil. Compaction of the soil increases the density of the soil, reduces the amount of air in the soil and impairs the ability to drain excess water. The fertility of compacted soil is reduced by up to 15%, found the Nordic research project. The more compacted the soil, the more the root growth decreases.

Poorer soil structure leads to greater erosion and greater loss of nutrients and to greater use of pesticides. Soil compaction thus leads to a long-term reduction in fertility.Injuries can be deep  and go down to 50 cm and it may take an entire generation to recover, or they may even never recover.

Farm machinery must therefore be light to minimize the impact on the soil. 

Intuitive electric wheelbarrow is an easy help for sustainable food growing.

The method of tillage and the use of pesticides have the greatest impact on the environment.  The impact on the environment is reduced if unploughed soil is used for cultivation using mulches to retain moisture and control weeds.

Mechanization that is designed to support the needs of small producers is therefore also beneficial for sustainable food production. Sustainable food production using fewer pesticides, fewer fertilizers, and antimicrobials, in an organic way with a reduced impact on biodiversity is also supported by the European Green Deal. This promotes such food chains that have a neutral or positive impact on the environment.

Developer and Designer of KarjolaMateja Treven

The Story of Karjola

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The story of Karjola began with a small orchard and meadow in the hilly part of Slovenia (Northern Primorska), which passed into my possession through the family heritage. I was looking for something simple yet motorized that I could use anywhere and without much effort. Something that would not tire me out, even if I drove up the slope, or on the grass several times in a row, or if I was carrying something heavier. I’ve been a tractor enthusiast since I was young, but I don’t think it makes sense to use tractor for many of such tasks. I found that an electric wheelbarrow would be best suited for this. I researched the solutions on the market and found that they are very far away from a simple user experience with the ordinary wheelbarrow. I knew from my development experience that an electric wheelbarrow could be made easier to use. So, I set out to develop an electric wheelbarrow that can be used so simply as an ordinary wheelbarrow. Then it will be useful for growers who do not need and often do not have sizable mechanization. My goal was also that even if the energy runs out, the usability remains virtually unchanged. I also wanted that it drives fast enough, as I was bothered by the slowness of the tested solutions.

We are now a motivated team from different parts of Slovenia and a new generation of electric wheelbarrows has emerged. We will continue to work hard to make the user experience truly great. Clearly, we will also take care of some add-ons.

Električna samokolnica

Intuitive Electric Wheelbarrow Karjola Was Successfully Introduced at Forum Agenti in Italy

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In cooperation with the agency Spirit Slovenija and Agent321 from Italy, the “Forum Agenti Virtual” took place, where we presented our intuitive electric wheelbarrow Karjola. Due to Covid 19, the meetings took place in a virtual way, which was by no means an obstacle to successful business talks. Much interest has been expressed in Karjola, especially for the hilly areas of Italy. There, the intuitive electric wheelbarrow is really a welcome innovative solution and a great help in gardening and agriculture, as well as around the house. There was also a lot of interest in the simple solution of transporting Karjola on a car towbar to take it with you to a country house, in a field or in the woods. There are certainly great opportunities for successful and constructive cooperation.

Our stand at the Forum Agenti Virtual can be viewed here.