To create awareness about alternative mobility solutions using renewable energy for passenger vehicles in Asian and European countries, an Indian-origin engineer Naveen Rabelli drove 10,000km on a solar-powered auto-rickshaw from India to London.

The auto had set off from Bengaluru in February. It is also known as 'tuk-tuk' in some parts of the world

35 years old Rabelli reached at Dover ferry crossing in the UK, days later than expected because he was robbed during a toilet break as he approached the ferry crossing from France.

The diesel-powered auto-rickshaw cost him $1,500 to buy. He spent an additional $11,500 to get it ready for the zero-emission adventure titled 'Tejas'.

The Times of India reported, Rabelli, who refused to let the robbery in France get him down, explained that, "The purpose of this journey is to create awareness of alternative mobility solutions for passenger vehicles in Asian and European countries using renewable energy - mix of solar and electricity."

"My passport and wallet were stolen when I parked to go to the toilet at a fast food restaurant at Sarcelles, about 45 km west of Paris. I reported it to the police, where there were some language issues but after a few hours they found an officer who could speak English. They are very helpful and sorry when they heard that I was about to finish my trip," he added.

India-born Rabelli was able to acquire an emergency travel document and complete his journey. He now holds an Australian passport.

"The aim was to highlight an entirely Indian solution to the world and show the benefits of using a prototype that is reliable, feasible and affordable," said Rabelli.

The specially-modified auto rickshaw is equipped with a bed, food cupboard and solar-powered cooker. It was shipped from India to Bandar Abbas in Iran from where he kick-started the overland mission to drive through Iran, Turkey, Bulgaria, Serbia, Austria, Switzerland, Germany and France before arriving in the UK.

Also Read: NRI gives Sushma Swaraj Rs 1 crore cheque for a cleaner India!

Nandini