Engineering Student Transforms Granddad’s Vintage Scooter Into An E-Scooter

Updated: Friday, January 12, 2024, 12:12 [IST]

In the bustling city of Imphal, Manipur, Albert Sarangthem, a bright engineering student, is garnering accolades for his remarkable transformation of a vintage scooter into a modern marvel of sustainability.

The Manipur Institute of Technology is nurturing a budding genius in Albert, who is deeply entrenched in his fifth-semester computer engineering studies. His journey into the realm of eco-innovations began three years prior with the revamping of a motorcycle, setting a precedent for his latest creation.

Reviving a Family Heirloom with a Green Twist

Albert's creative endeavour breathes new life into a scooter that once graced the streets of the 1970s, a family heirloom originally owned by his grandfather. In the Wangkhei Thambalkhong locality, where Albert resides, the scooter's story might have ended, rusting away in a garage after being discarded by an uncle.

However, Albert envisioned a different fate for the vintage machine. He embarked on a mission to re-engineer the scooter into an electric vehicle (EV), a process that requires meticulous replacement of fuel-dependent components with an electric motor, a speed controller, and a battery.

From Dream to Reality: The Birth of Samadon EV-II

Albert's endeavour faced challenges, particularly in sourcing motor parts within the local markets, a task made even more arduous by local unrest. Nonetheless, his determination remained unshaken, and after an intensive eight-month search, he accumulated all the essential components for the conversion.

The resulting masterpiece, the 'Samadon EV-II', is a testament to Albert's perseverance, capable of travelling 50 kilometres on a mere two-and-a-half-hour charge. His journey to innovation was largely self-taught, with the internet serving as his primary resource for knowledge, complemented by hands-on experience gained from a local e-rickshaw workshop.

The young techie has fittingly christened his creations 'Samadon', drawing inspiration from ancient Meitei mythology which depicts a magnificent winged horse soaring through the skies.

Awards and Recognition: A Nod to Young Innovation

Albert's talent has not gone unnoticed. His exceptional skills have earned him accolades from Manipur's Transport Minister Khashim Vashum and a certificate of appreciation from his academic institution.

Officials from the state transport department recognize the potential of such conversions, though they also emphasize the need for obtaining type approval for the modified vehicles.

Albert's story and images of the Samadon EV-II have sparked a viral sensation on social media, with countless netizens expressing admiration for his innovative spirit. His work shines as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating that with tenacity and ingenuity, one can not only preserve the past but also steer it into a sustainable future.

In conclusion, Albert Sarangthem's vision and hard work serve as a remarkable example of how innovation can address environmental concerns while cherishing our heritage. His ingenious electric scooter stands as a symbol of progress and eco-friendliness, urging us all to think creatively in the quest for a greener planet.

Image Courtesy: Sarangthem Albert