• Tweet ^[1]
• Email ^[2]

One of fifty inspired entries in this year’s Greener Gadgets Design Competition ^[3], Fastronauts ^[4] was one of our favorite entries. Fastronauts ^[4] are a dynamic trio of power-packing superheroes that aim to make renewable energy ^[5] accessible to eager young minds ^[6]. Each eco-friendly action figure is powered by play: the more you charge your little fastronaut (through motion), the more it will talk, light up, and zoom around in its little vehicle. Each fastronaut uses a dynamo to generate energy for lights, sounds, a bicycle speedometer and more. These versatile action figures are a great way to introduce kids to energy conservation while encouraging them get outside and play.

Kids are a boundless source of energy, and we’re big fans of toys that put that energy to good use. Designed for 5-year olds but scalable to a wide range of ages, Fastronauts ^[4] encourage kids to exercise and make them feel empowered as they charge up their toys.

Each action figure is powered by a rechargeable battery and a dynamo that is housed within one of two vehicles. The moon cruiser generates energy by rolling along the ground, while the rocket attaches to a bicycle ^[11] and powers up as the wheels spin. Tri-color LEDs show how much energy has been generated, and each toy has a button that makes the Fastronaut talk, providing instant feedback. A carefully considered assembly and recyclable casing rounds out the package, enabling Fastronauts ^[4] to be recycled into future toys. These fun eco-champions are sure to inspire the undertaking of great adventures.

If you’re a fan of the Fastronauts ^[4], be sure to vote for them in the Greener Gadgets Design Competition ^[3]! We’ll be using your votes to select ten finalists for an exciting round of live judging and the chance to win $5,000 in prizes at this year’s Greener Gadgets Conference ^[12].

+ Fastronauts ^[4]

+ Greener Gadgets Design Competition ^[3]