El Richo

Arickshaw is a tricycle used for transporting people or goods, very common in Asia, often powered by scooter engines. Franco Sbarro wondered whether he could improve these urban vehicles by equipping them with an electric or hybrid motor. But he didn't stop there.

Electric

For congested city centers, the electric motor is the best choice, as it emits no pollutants. Franco Sbarro proposed an electric city car, the Carville, as early as 1978. The El-Richo is available as an all-electric four-seater, and as a hybrid three-seater. Only the four-seater version was exhibited at Geneva. If the sticker on the side of the car is anything to go by, Sbarro has teamed up with Kyburz, a Swiss company that markets electric vehicles, notably for postal services.

Sphere

It's at the front that the Sbarro El-Richo distinguishes itself, adopting the sphere principle of the Tracto-sphere and Pendo-traction. All mechanical components are housed in this sphere, freeing up space. What's more, the sphere can pivot on itself, offering an exceptional turning radius and outstanding maneuverability in town. This system has been patented by Franco Sbarro.

Security

Nobody buckles their seatbelt in a rickshaw in Asian cities. As a result, Franco Sbarro preferred to focus on passive safety, notably with a rubber-covered side bar that sits in front of the passengers. A bit like a merry-go-round. This system limits damage in the event of an impact.  Franco Sbarro also humorously points out that passengers can no longer leave the vehicle without paying, since only the driver can release the famous bar!