Ford E-Bike Concept

Ford has revealed the E-Bike Concept, an electrically-assisted bicycle that (for the time being at least) it has no plans to put into production.

Ford E-Bike Concept (2011) Side

The E-Bike project is meant to demonstrate how Ford’s current design language could be applied to two-wheelers. On the face of it, perhaps rather a pointless exercise, but the result nevertheless incorporates some very neat technology.

Unusually for this type of bike, the 350W electric motor sits within the front wheel hub, effectively giving the E-Bike on-demand all-wheel drive. Power comes from a 340Wh lithium-ion battery that’s concealed in the lightweight carbon and aluminium frame, and the predicted range is around 50 miles (85 km) with a flat-to-full recharge time of between three and four hours. To comply with European regulations, the assisted top speed is limited to 15 mph (25 km/h).

The rider can choose from Economy, Comfort or Sport support modes, and sensors automatically activate the electric motor when they detect that assistance is required.

Drive to the rear wheel is via pedal power, although replacing the normal chain is a toothed carbon belt. Other components include a Shimano Alfine 11-speed internal gear hub, Mavic Elipse six-spoke aluminium wheels and Avid Elixir 5 hydraulic brakes.

Related post:
Smart ebike due in 2012

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