In a heartwarming display of innovation meeting tradition, the Dartford Lions Club has taken a significant step towards sustainability by powering their beloved 97-year-old children’s carousel with the fully electric Hyundai IONIQ 5, replacing the long-standing petrol generator.
For nearly a century, the carousel has been a staple attraction at local fairs and community events, enchanting generations of children with its charming design.. Originally powered by a petrol generator, the carousel’s journey has mirrored technological progress across the decades. However, concerns about emissions, noise, and environmental impact led the Lions Club to explore cleaner, quieter alternatives—culminating in the creative use of the battery-powered Hyundai IONIQ 5.
This modern twist has brought a breath of fresh air—quite literally—to the event scene. With zero tailpipe emissions and minimal noise output, the Hyundai Q5 offers a seamless and eco-conscious energy source. Its powerful battery is more than capable of delivering the consistent electricity needed to keep the carousel spinning for hours, while the absence of engine fumes has noticeably improved the atmosphere around the ride, particularly appreciated by parents and event organisers alike. The carousel ran for the 3 hour duration of the event in Southfleet, with an approximate cost of 20p.
The transition has not only demonstrated the Lions Club’s commitment to greener practices but has also sparked interest and admiration from the wider community. Many locals were pleasantly surprised to learn that a standard electric vehicle could be repurposed in such an imaginative way, bringing history and sustainability together in perfect harmony. It also serves as a powerful educational moment, subtly showing young attendees the benefits of clean energy in an engaging, tangible form.
Dartford Lion Club member and environmental officer Lion Edward Boyling said “For the first time in nearly 100 years, the Dartford Lions carousel was spun to life using solar energy. This was achieved by utilising vehicle to load from a Hyundai Ioniq 5. Powering the carousel from the EV removed the need for a noisy, smelling petrol generator, reducing running costs and improving the experience for all involved..”
As the carousel continues to delight young riders, it now does so with a smaller carbon footprint and a bigger message. In an age where every step towards sustainability matters, the Dartford Lions Club has proved that even century-old traditions can embrace the future without losing their charm. With the Hyundai Q5 silently spinning the carousel into its next chapter, this local treasure remains as vibrant and meaningful as ever.