Automaker BMW is introducing some concept e-bikes that incorporate geofencing technology which enables them to ride within speed limits of city roads, while the full power of the e-bike is released on inter-city highways. These designs are concepts that may become a reality in the future, although they are not far from reality, as some of the principles are already being used with electric cars in Europe and other regions.
BMW gave us a sneak peek of two of its concept e-bikes – i Vision AMBY and Motorrad Vision AMBY. The BMW i Vision is a pedal-assisted e-bike that has a 2,000Wh battery with a driving range of 300km. The Motorrad Vision will have a throttle and footrest, just like a traditional motorbike. The two concept e-bikes will have three levels of speeds that will be adjusted for different types of roads. The first speed limit is 25kmph for bike paths, while the next is 45kmph for city roads. The e-bike concepts could achieve top speeds of 60kmph on multi-lane roads outside the city limits.
The three-speed modes offer lots of opportunities for e-bikes if they eventually become a reality. It means that users can operate their bikes on restricted roads thanks to the geofencing solution which ensures that the e-bike does not exceed the speed limit when in the city. The geofencing solution also means that such bikes would not fall outside the regulated S-pedelecs allowed to ply city roads due to their speed rating.
While it could be argued that these very fast e-bikes without geofencing if allowed into city roads, pose some threats due to drivers preferring not to abide by the speed limits. Geofencing however enforces the speed limit, thus enhancing overall safety on the road for all users. Geofencing is getting more applications especially across Europe where some cities like Amsterdam have already designated low emission zones for vehicles.
An added safety feature in the e-bike concepts is the proximity radar that will alert the rider using visual and audio prompts when a vehicle was approaching the e-bike from the rear. The concept e-bike models provide a basis for further consideration of devices that could be unveiled in no distant time.
RELATED:
