Electric Bicycles Make Their Mark

As current trends in the transportation industry move toward cleaner, more efficient and environmentally safe ways of getting from point A to point B, one type of vehicle that is just beginning to make its mark is the electric bicycle. Once thought of as being too cumbersome and heavy, the electric bicycle is now being mass-produced.

EV Global Motors, founded by former Chrysler CEO Lee Iacocca, hopes to sell 1,000 light electric vehicles (LEV’s) a week. Their first line of LEV’s, the E-Bike, has a top speed of 15 miles per hour, weighs only 67 pounds and has a range of up to 20 miles. Priced under $1,000, an average electrical charge for a 15-mile trip costs less than five cents. You can even get optional front disc brakes and cruise control.

But for those who want something a little faster, Schwinn has recently introduced the Sierra Electro Drive, which has a top speed of 18 miles per hour, weighs under 50 pounds and has a range of up to 30 miles. You won’t get as many bells and whistles as you would with the E-Bike but the enhanced performance will set you back by only $100 more.

Most electric bicycles are powered by a small electric motor connected to one or two removable lead acid battery packs. The batteries usually take between two to six hours to recharge. Some manufacturers even offer a quick-charge option for those short runs down to the corner store.

With the rapid advancement of alternative transportation technologies, expect the electric bicycle to become quicker, more efficient and less costly in the near future. They’re great for short commutes and even with the electric motor, you still get the added benefit of exercise.

Sources: EV Global Motors; Schwinn; Environmental News Network