Bhadrak: Binod Maharana is just 17. With a keen interest in technology and a passion for tinkering, Binod has achieved something remarkable. He has built a fully functional e-scooter from scratch, all by watching YouTube tutorials.
Hailing from Patharadi village in Bhadrak district, Binod has recently appeared for his Class-X examinations at Happy Home School and secured 64.4 per cent.
Growing up in a humble household, where his father works as a mechanic and his mother is a homemaker, Binod learned to be frugal and creative. When he set his sights on owning an electric scooter, he was deterred by the steep prices. Instead of giving up, Binod decided to take the DIY route, using scrap materials and spare parts lying around his home.
With a broken bicycle handlebar, steel pipes, and a seat, Binod designed and assembled a working scooter. He sourced wheels and a motor online, showcasing his ability to leverage technology to achieve his goals. But what truly sets Binod’s achievement apart is his ingenuity in manufacturing a battery himself. The scooter’s functionality is further enhanced by a switch, accelerator, and brake mounted on the handlebar, allowing for smooth speed control.
The scooter, which can carry one or two people, has a top speed and can travel 8-9 kilometres on a single charge. Binod spent around Rs 15,000 on the project and took about a month to complete it. He plans to build a seated version of the scooter in the future.
Binod’s achievement is a testament to his creativity and resourcefulness. He credits his family, including his parents and siblings, for their support and encouragement. After completing his Class X exams, Binod plans to pursue engineering studies.
In short, Binod’s e-Scooter is more than just a mode of transportation – it’s a symbol of his determination and creativity. By repurposing scraps and spare parts, Binod has demonstrated that innovation can thrive in resource-constrained environments. His story serves as an inspiration to young minds, showcasing the potential of DIY learning and the importance of nurturing curiosity and problem-solving skills.
