As part of its push into eco-friendly concepts, BMW is launching the BMW i Pedelec, an electric bicycle that is designed to provide an extra boost to the cyclist’s pedaling motion. The electric hub motor only assists the rider’s pedalling up to 25 km/h (16 mph), the BMW i Pedelec Concept does not need to be insured or registered, no licence is required to use it, and the rider does not have to wear a helmet. Depending on the nature of the route, rider’s weight and degree of motor assistance utilised, a full battery charge will give a range of 25 – 40 kilometres (16 – 25 miles). Under braking and when riding downhill, the hub motor acts as a generator and supplies the battery with energy. It takes just four hours – or 1.5 hours on a quick charge – for the empty battery to be fully recharged, either from a domestic plug socket or inside the boot of the BMW i3 Concept.
BMW i Pedelec Concept specifications:
Length 1,480 mm
Wheelbase 1,080 mm
Frame Aluminium and carbon fibre (50:50)
Wheels 16-inch
Brakes Hydraulic disc brakes
front and rear
Gears Three-speed gear hub
Weight >20 kg
Electric motor 42 V hub motor
250 W/20 Nm (15 lb-ft.)
Motor management system Electronic, via torque
(pedal torque > motor torque
Battery 42 V lithium-manganese (LiMn) battery
Charging time 1.5/4.0 hours
Range 25 – 40 km (16 – 25 miles)
via: bmwblog.com
