Hybrid cycles have been around but they rarely take into consideration the elements. This makes their usage restrictive to fair weather. Slotting itself into the “commuter vehicle” bracket, the Emcycle tries to overcome this limitation by including a roof and Velcro-detachable side panels. Basically you can cocoon yourself and pedal or take electrical assiatnce to get you to your destination. There are three drive options ranging from AM (I have energy) through to PM (I’m tired!).
Features:
- Head and brake lights, seat belt, airbag, radio / MP3 player plug in, storage space (approx 6 shopping bags in total using front and rear) comfortable seating.
- A single person commuter vehicle for a driver and up to 75 lbs of luggage.
- Fully enclosed body.
- Two lockable doors. Front and lockable rear luggage compartments.
- 30mph crash tested; Roll over protection, Airbag, 3 point seat belt.
- Adjustable full seat.
- Adjustable handlebar/instrument pod.
- Ignition key to lock steering column and parking brake.
- Lockable glove box.
- Windscreen wiper and washer.
- Front and rear LED lights. Separate LED headlight. Headlight flasher. LED direction indicators with self canceling. LED brake lights.
- Horn/bell.
- Full instrumentation – Speed, miles/kilometers, trip miles/kilometers.
- Battery charge gauge, electricity usage gauge, warning lights for all functions, 4 way emergency flasher.
- Flow through filtered ventilation and heater.
- Suspension; Disc brakes; Reverse gear.
- Two side rear view mirrors.
Size:
24” wide X 73” tall X 80” long. Pedals power the rear wheel through a driver operated infinitely variable constant velocity transmission. Height and bright colors make it conspicuous to other road users. 80lbs. ‘No air – no puncture’ foam filled tires.
Stability:
The two front wheels tilt to allow banking in corners but have self righting springs to allow feet-up stops. Two front wheels give increased cornering and braking stability. 6 ½ ft turning radius. Front and rear lifting handles.
Power of a Pedalec:
Classified in Europe as a bicycle.* Electric front wheel drive, variable assist up to 1000 watts.* Up to 40mph and 40 mile assisted range.* Overnight plug in home recharge and regenerative braking. Separate batteries for drive and equipment.
Options:
- Radio and iPod holder. Drink and snack holder.
- Luggage net/covers.
- Solar charging.
- Trailer towing kit.
- Child seat.
- Winterize package. Transparent door opening foul weather covers. Storage cover.
It will be available at around $2500 – $4500 and the plan is to get the vehicle into production by 2011 in time for the London Olympics which it could be well utilized for by renting travelers / commuters.
Designer: Michael Scholey
CAD Model and Images: Adam Schacter
[youtube:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-E8H0nAYsA 605 445]
