With the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a need for good alternatives to over-crowded public transport. Bicycling is the best alternative, but it does not protect users from weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, or scorching sun.
That’s why the Swedish manufacturer developed the “Car-eBike” that has a roof, a windshield, four wheels, and offers space for two adults or one adult and two children – but it is still a bicycle. The reason – you have to pedal to get around. With Car-eBike, CityQ is now closing the gap between a comfortable, spacious car and an environmentally friendly, space-saving e-bike.
Car-eBike is designed to make bicycling more comfortable for everyone, especially in the event of rain or snow and bad weather. The very special e-bike has two doors and even a load compartment for luggage and other useful objects, with rotating side doors and windows that can also be closed completely or partially to prevent the vehicle from bad weather.
Even if the vehicle resembles a small car, it does not take up more space than a scooter. As with the e-bike, the driver has to pedal, but you won’t find any chains, gears, and gearboxes, because the corresponding functions are performed by a software-controlled drive train. As part of this software platform, CityQ includes an app for opening, locking, tracking, and even renting the Car-eBike.
The electric motor is limited to 250 W and reaches 25 km/h (15.5 mph). Equipped with two batteries, the capacity of which is not specified, it has a range of 70-100km (43-62 miles) per charge. This vehicle weighs 70 kg, which corresponds to an average electric car and has a total load of 300 kg.
“CityQ is the bike with the comfort of a car and the benefits of a bicycle. Enjoyable to ride, eco-friendly with the footprint and flexibility of an e-bike, but with the capabilities, comfort, and technology of a car. That is why we call CityQ a Car-eBike,” says founder Morten Rynning
The concept has reached market maturity after several years of development. It will be available in retail in 2021 – at a price of €6,000 ($6,700). For a deposit of €99 (around $112), the manufacturer is now accepting binding pre-orders.
