This Voice-Controlled E-Bike Made Entirely Of Carbon Fiber Weighs Just 30 Pounds
Image via Urtopia
Although we are now teetering on the edge of being spoilt for choice when it comes to electric vehicles, the humble-yet-mighty bicycle isn’t a force to be reckoned with.
Despite being a slightly quieter market, developments in the electric bicycle field are making it a pretty strong contender for the transport of the future. It has, after all, been zero-emission since day one.
Joining in on the hype is Urtopia, an electric bike that is aiming to make city transport efficient and easy with its high-tech design. Its name, born from the combination of “urban utopia,” says all that needs to be known.
The unique shape of the bike frame, according to designer Mathis Heller, was inspired by the Möbius strip: a representation of infinity and the potential for endless connection.
“This idea coincides with Urtopia’s effort in recycling energy, reducing waste, as well as creating a greener future with infinite possibilities for all,” the company states.
Image via Urtopia
Its design is entirely carbon-fiber, which is described by the Hong Kong-based firm as “the ultimate material for high-end bikes.” While being lightweight yet durable, it also can effectively absorb shock and vibrations for a more comfortable experience. All of this is packed neatly into just 13kg (30lbs) overall.
A removable battery ensures easy charging on the go, with a single 2.5-hour charge offering a range of 30 to 80 miles. This, of course, depends on factors like terrain. In line with different regional laws, a top speed of 20 mph is offered up in the US and Canadian version of the bike, while the European model gets 16 mph.
All the required wires in the Urtopia have been internally routed. As well as giving the exterior of the bike its polished, neat look, this also means that the wires will be protected by the bike frame, which gives it even longer life.
Another standout feature is the Smartbar, which includes an LCD display in the center. This keeps users up to date with the bike’s status as well as offers a GPS find-your-bike feature alongside navigational tools. With voice recognition, riders can control the bike easily without risking safety to fiddle with controls, even if it’s in the dedicated app.
Image via Urtopia
Oh, and you can use your fingerprint to unlock the bike too, because it wouldn’t be a smart device otherwise, would it?
Five riding modes are available, including a Turbo Mode that replicates the experience of throttle mode, allowing users to ride comfortably with little pedaling required. Other riding assistance modes come in the form of Pedal, Eco, Comfort, and Sport.
Urtopia hit Indiegogo just last month, and, as of writing, has surpassed its goal of US$40,040 by more than 5,000%. Achieving just over US$2 million in backing with a couple of days left of the campaign, it’s safe to say that customers are pretty excited for this innovative e-bike to hit the streets.
Image via Urtopia
[via New Atlas, images via Urtopia]
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