Japanese electronics companies really seem to believe in the concept of electric bikes. Following Yamaha and Panasonic whose bikes were unveiled in July (Yamaha presented another one last month), Toshiba exhibited a model manufactured by Cannondale during the 15th World Congress on Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), which was held in New York last week.
The bike is equipped with a battery module that is based on Toshiba’s proprietary quick-charging lithium ion rechargeable battery “SCiB”. Measuring 100×300x45mm, the module features a voltage of 24V (weight: 2kg). Toshiba says the bike reaches an assisted travel range of up to 30 miles with a single charge.
The bike is scheduled for release in America and Europe early next year with Cannondale reportedly planning to price it at around $3,000. And this time, the Japanese are left empty-handed since in its current form, the bike would violate the local Road Traffic Law (the other electric bikes mentioned above are Japan-only).
Via Tech-On
$3,000 for electric bike? quite expensive.
Yes, the other bikes mentioned in the article are also in the 4-digit USD range.
The pictured bike says “Schwinn”. Where did the source article get Cannondale from?
So… It’s a bike built by Cannondale, designed by Toshiba, and marketed as a… Schwinn? WTF?
Take something that has health and environmental benefits and strip them all away by adding an electric motor. Granted this is not as pollutant as a car, but really does anyone need a $3000 electric bike.
Nice idea, but lacks a decent lock to protect the price tag, and the dynamo assisted brake is a more green approach that woudl be a nice add on.
Nice idea, but lacks a decent lock to protect the price tag, and the dynamo assisted brake is a more green approach that woudl be a nice add on.