smart – people who make those tiny annoying city cars – announced they are going to put their innovative electric bike into production in 2012.
A near-series version of the smart ebike will be on display at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and before that at the “Eurobike” show in Friedrichshafen, but the actual ebike will be launche din Europe and North America in the first half of 2012.
The smart ebike is basically like electric scooters for those who want to ride a bicycle, but don’t feel like pedaling! smart calls it a pedelec (Pedal Electric Cycle). The electric motor – a maintenance-free and brushless rear-wheel hub motor from BionX – switches on as soon as the rider starts pedalling as with a normal bicycle.Muscle power is transmitted to the rear wheel via a durable and quiet belt drive. An integrated three-speed gear hub provides for comfortable gear changing.
The ebike can reach a top speed f 25 km/h.
There is a choice of four power levels with the fourth and highest level providing maximum pushing power. Depending on the power level selected and the manner of cycling a battery charge can last for more than 100 kilometres. With more than 400 Wh the lithium-ion battery is one of the most powerful batteries in the competitive environment.
The two-material and two-colour concept is also typically smart. The plastic battery housing forms a striking contrast to the aluminium frame of the smart ebike and the dynamic look is rounded off by 26 inch wheels. The headlamp and rear light feature LED technology. What’s more the bike also features an infotainment system with USB port. There are even plans to develop a special app for the iPhone which would allow smart ebike riders to use their iPhone as an information centre, for example to call up information on the charging status and range.
All these clever stuff are brilliant. But they sure come at a price. Bicycles used to be a mean of transport for those who couldn’t afford a car. Not anymore though! This ebike will certainly cost more than lots of good second-hand cars. Thankfully, there are more affordable e-bike deals available at the moment, like these from Esen.
