Woodybus: The Wooden Pedal-Driven School Bus

A kind of wooden bus that doesn’t pollute and allows its passengers to get some exercise: could this be the future of school transportation?

To replace school buses and their roaring diesel engines, the French company Humbird has created the Woodybus, a wooden bus powered by pedal force. The 8 seats (plus the driver’s seat) are equipped with pedals, inviting everyone to participate in the collective effort. Passengers are supported by a specially developed electric assistance for heavy cargo bikes. This assistance, combined with the 7-speed gearbox, makes it possible to confidently tackle hills.

With a width of 115 cm, the Woodybus is classified as a bicycle and can therefore use bike lanes. Its two 630 Wh batteries can be partially charged via solar energy, thanks to optional photovoltaic panels. With an estimated range of about 20 km, this quirky bus should be reserved for short trips. The maximum speed below 20 km/h also limits its operational radius.

A bus to encourage physical activity among schoolchildren

The project founders explain that the Woodybus “aims to replace cars dropping off children living within a 3 km radius of the school, and to raise awareness about cycling”. They describe it as “completely stable” and specify that children onboard would be equipped with “helmets and fluorescent vests”. These safety items, along with lighting and reflective strips, would ensure everyone’s safety.

The Woodybus is manufactured in France, near Nantes, using wood from the Landes forest. The use of this material significantly reduces the vehicle’s carbon footprint. Its empty weight of less than 200 kilograms further favors environmental considerations, as lightness always correlates with resource savings. The price has not been discussed, but it’s likely that a Woodybus would always be less expensive than a real bus!

Also read: Neither car nor scooter, the Nimbus One seeks the perfect synthesis