In a time like the current one, in which urban transport is constantly evolving, mobility brands are increasingly focusing on developing environmentally friendly solutions for moving around cities. In an attempt to satisfy the needs of urbanites looking for sustainable and efficient transportation solutions, proposals like the one you see in the images arrive.
This is the peculiar alternative brought to you by the French start-up Karbikes, which has introduced a new concept of electric vehicle that is halfway between the bicycle and the microcar. With the same name as the start-up itself, it has four wheels, two seats, designer headlights, a windshield and a complete body, which makes it look like a miniature car.
However, in practice it is closer to a kind of electrically assisted cargo bike whose 250W motor only activates when we are pedaling. In this way, with an ingenious combination of practicality and commitment to the environment, the Karbikes (its name is like this, in plural) promises to offer both the advantages of an electric bike and the greater stability and comfort of a compact car.
All this means that it could become a perfect companion for urban commuting. Made with a steel structure, aluminum roof, polycarbonate windshield and, later, with rigid lockable doors, this innovative electric vehicle is designed to protect the cyclist from wind and rain, while providing greater stability and safety.
According to the statistics managed by the manufacturer, 75% of cycling accidents are due to a loss of balance on the part of the user. Karbikes claims that the robust chassis and four-wheel design of its vehicle contribute to reducing the risk of accidents. In addition, drivers will have better visibility, similar to that of a city car.
Likewise, additional features such as the aforementioned lockable doors, alarm system, horn, brake light and turn signals improve the overall level of safety. Designed with protection against the elements in mind, this proposal is equipped with a partially convertible body.
This means that the user (or users) gets full protection in rainy or windy conditions, but the roof, windows and trunk door are retractable if they want to enjoy the outdoors. In this way, it will be possible to feel the breeze and be closer to the environment during sunny days, especially when driving through authorized green areas.
In terms of dimensions, the vehicle is three times more compact than a conventional utility car. It measures only 80 cm wide, ensuring easy maneuverability and making it perfectly suitable for the urban environment. The electric motor is assisted by a 1.2 kWh battery that can also receive power from an optional solar panel and a regenerative braking system.
In terms of performance, the electric assistance of this French proposal is limited to a maximum speed of 25 km/h and its engine delivers 130 Nm of torque. If you want to see the vehicle in full action, you just have to take a look at the video that accompanies this article.