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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.

 

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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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.