If you're hauling things around on a bicycle, then a little motorized assistance mightn't go astray. We have seen a few quirky attempts at electrifying three-wheeled cargo bikes over the years, including standing versions that tilt into corners and meatier versions built to go off road. The latest to cross our desk takes a cleaner and more minimalist approach, and also comes with a handy GPS feature in case you need to track it down if it goes missing.
The movE electric cargo bike is a product of seven years of development from Sanitov Studio, a London-based design studio. A removable 36 V, 15.6 Ah battery powers a 250 W motor integrated into the front hub, nudging the rider along at speeds of up to 25 km/h over a 50 km range (15 mph over 31 mi).
Built to carry up to 200 kg (440 lb), the movE cargo bike's load sits in an aluminum box mounted onto the back of the steel frame, which the designers say improves handling and will help avoid damaged goods or children in the event of a crash.
This rear cargo hold can be customized depending on how you plan to use the bike. Accessories that can be mounted onto the frame by the user include a curved spray hood to protect goods or children from the weather, an adjustable child seat with safety belt, a simple lid to cover up cargo and a larger, lockable box that can also be removed from the bike if need be.
The bike also features an integrated GPS tracker, which is designed to work with a companion app (currently under development) so that the user can keep tabs on its whereabouts. This is useful for not just locating the bike if it is stolen, but can track things like carbon emissions reductions and miles logged. The designers say that it could also allow business to track orders and deliveries.
The bike itself weighs 55 kg (121 lb) and the battery can be recharged in five to eight hours, while an external port enables it to also charge up devices. The frame is available in green black or grey, while the seat and handlebars are wrapped in brown leather.
Currently the subject of a Kickstarter campaign, the movE cargo bike is available for an early pledge of 11,181 Danish Krone (US$1,778), while an extra battery pack will be thrown in for 1,246 Krone (US$200). The company hopes to start shipping in December if all goes to plan.
You can check out the pitch video below.
Source: Sanitov