MORGAN'S EPIC INDIAN ADVENTURE
Last issue we were treated to a feature on a Morgan 3 Wheeler, in which we learnt just how limited the luggage space could be in such a vehicle. That did not stop the owners of our featured car from taking it on lengthy trips to Europe, but one couple is planning an even more ambitious adventure – the Morgan Motor Company has given official backing to 73-year- old entrepreneur and philanthropist Alan Braithwaite and his wife Pat, who plan to drive their Morgan 3W on a 3500-mile, 33-day journey around India on the Trans- India Challenge.
The Challenge aims to raise £200,000 to support Indian aid NGO Goonj, and fund academic research into Goonj’s ‘circular economy’ model. This sustainable approach recycles urban waste to use as ‘currency,’ rewarding rural communities for improving their local environment such as roads, water supply, hygiene or schools.
Steve Morris, CEO of Morgan Motor Company, said: 'The Morgan 3 Wheeler is the perfect car for the Trans- India Challenge because of the attention it brings: it’s different and it’s fun. You’re always on an adventure in a Morgan and you drive with a smile on your face. Not only will this trip demonstrate what a Morgan is capable of, but you also know that it will bring attention to Goonj. It’s going to be a fantastic adventure all round.'
For Alan, Morgan’s support is a major boost. 'We are delighted that Morgan has recognised the significance of the Trans- India Challenge,' he said. 'It will be a massive test for the car, but will certainly put Morgan firmly on the Indian map. With Morgan’s durability, and the materials used in the cars’ manufacture being sustainable and re-useable, this is the perfect choice of vehicle. It is also another milestone in recognising the ‘circular economy’ model championed by Goonj.”
The 3500-mile Trans- India Challenge will start from Mumbai on 1st February 2020 and take in cities including Pune, Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Puri, Kolkata, Patna, Lucknow, Agra, New Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur and Ahmedabad, before returning to Mumbai at the beginning of March. It aims to visit 11 Goonj centres or projects along the way.