Eco Factor: Electric bike based on Toshiba’s SCiB batteries charges quickly.
Toshiba has demonstrated a power-assisted bicycle developed by Cannondale Sports Group LLC at the 15th World Congress on Intelligent Transport Systems. The bike is based on Toshiba’s quick-charging lithium ion rechargeable battery SCiB. Not only does SCiB ease the charging time, it also features enhanced safety with the use of lithium titanate for the cathode.
The bike runs on a battery module that carries 10 SCiB cells connected in series. Together the 2kg setup measures just 100 X 300 X 45mm and provides 24 volts of electricity, which gives 20-30 miles of range per charge. The company is planning to launch the bike in North America and Europe in the early part of 2009 at a price of $3,000.
The Dark Side:
People buy bikes because they are a cheaper alternative to cars and motorcycles. A $3,000 price tag would mean that these bikes would only attract people with big pockets and others would still have to ride a non-electric bike or wait for a cheaper alternative.
Via: TechOn
