Schaeffler’s vision for urban mobility is lighter and airier than many other velomobiles. The Bio-Hybrid offers protection from rain, head wind and other elements with a roof and windshield. The rest of the vehicle is left open, creating a body that’s similar to this Bridgestone trike concept from a few years back. What it has that the Bridgestone and others don’t is a convertible roof that swings behind the seat for fully open-top riding, leaving just the windshield in place.
The Bio-Hybrid’s four-wheeled platform is designed to provide plenty of stability while still maintaining a small enough track for bike lanes. The vehicle measures 6.9 x 4.9 x 2.8 ft (2.1 x 1.5 x .85 m, L x H x W) and has a track of 2.6 ft (80 cm). Riding on 24-in tires, it seats two in tandem style and currently weighs in at 176 lb (80 kg) – however, Schaeffler thinks it can get that down to 132 lb (60 kg).
The Bio-Hybrid relies on a pedal-assist drive with a low, centrally-mounted battery pack to help the rider reach speeds of up to 15.5 mph (25 km/h). The drive system includes an automatic gear shifter and electric reverse gear, with Schaeffler estimating a range between 31 and 62 miles (50 and 100 km) and saying the design could accommodate motors between 250 and 750 watts to meet different market regulations. Other features include smartphone integration and an adjustable luggage compartment in back.
Source: gizmag
