The ingenuity of a Cuban mechanic for making a car run on coal has captured the attention of the international press, amidst the severe fuel crisis the Island is experiencing.
According to a report by Reuters, Juan Carlos Pino, a 56-year-old mechanic residing in Aguacate, in the province of Mayabeque, successfully adapted a car to run on charcoal as an energy source, replacing gasoline.
The vehicle, a Polish model from 1980, was modified with a system built from recycled parts, which allows gas to be generated from the combustion of coal to fuel the engine.
According to the report, the car can reach speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour and has covered considerable distances, making it an alternative solution to the fuel shortages affecting the country.
The mechanic himself explained that the initiative arises from the need to maintain mobility in a context where gasoline is limited and expensive, especially in the informal market.
The system was completely built with reused materials, including an adapted tank and an improvised filtering system, reflecting the level of creativity that many Cubans rely on to face everyday challenges.
The case has generated interest both inside and outside of Cuba, where the vehicle has become a curiosity and an example of popular ingenuity in the face of the energy crisis.
The fuel situation on the Island remains critical, with restrictions on distribution and high prices, forcing many citizens to seek alternatives to ensure transportation and their daily activities.
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