Blog
16 August 2016 | Others
The electric bike of the future is available now
When you think about an electric bike, you probably imagine a not-so-sexy bike, with bulky features, powered by a large battery that takes a lot of place. We can’t blame you for these preconceptions. Until now, electric bikes were never renowned for their attractiveness.
Intelligent, connected bike
The Dutch company VanMoof has been hard at work to change your perception of electric bikes with the “Electrified S” model, on sale for a few weeks already. We are talking about an intelligent, connected bike that doesn’t assume itself, apparently, since no one would guess it’s true nature without investigating further.
The VanMoof concept is based on simplicity, discretion and efficacity, and it’s working quite well. A 250W motor and a battery with a 120km autonomy, all fitting in what looks like a standard bike frame, weighting in at approximately 40 pounds. The battery, once completely depleted, requires a 6 hours charge.
Locking and unlocking of the bike by phone
The frame of the bike sports a subtle touchscreen, where you can adjust your speeds on the fly. It’s when you couple the “Electrified S” bike with a smartphone that it truly shines. Using a combination of Bluetooth and Internet connection (more on the Internet of Things here), the VanMoof app gives you full control over the bike adjustments. The most practical fonctionnality : the locking and unlocking of the bike by phone.
he VanMoof app allows you to lock and unlock you bike with the press of a button
You can find where it is very easily
Even better than that, the bike supports geolocalization, which mean you can find where it is very easily. According to the VanMoof founder Taco Carlier, the few “Electrified S” bikes that were stolen were all retrieved in a short span of time, in collaboration with the police. This is an important selling point for the bike, since the “Electrified S” cost as much as some second hand cars. The retail price was fixed at 3000 euros, which represents approximately 4300$ Canadian dollars.
In term of performance, you need to understand that de VanMoof bike is not a motorcycle, you’ll still need to work a little bit to make it go forward. The electric motor is more of an assistant, giving you that little extra push needed, especially while climbing.
The bike of the future
The bike rides smooth and quiet. Standard electric bikes were traditionally designed for aging adults, but VanMoof truly believe they have put together a bike for everyone. Only time will tell if the youth will buy the concept.
Overall, the VanMoof “Electrified S” really look like the bike of the future, and it’s available right now. But with a price point on the very high side, will the consumers answer the call?
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