It's Good to Have a Roof: the Karbikes Electric Bicycle Has Been Launched

Ride a bike and feel like you're in a car? It's possible with this bike-car hybrid.

If you choose to ride an electric bike around town, you are benefiting your health and the environment. However, this often comes at the cost of comfort, especially in adverse weather conditions like rain, where cyclists can get completely soaked. Is it possible to combine the convenience of a bicycle with the comfort of a car in a single mode of transportation?

What Are Karbikes and How Do They Work?

The French company Karbikes has answered the question of comfort when riding your bike with an innovative solution: a new four-wheeled electric bike featuring a closed cabin. This design allows you to stay dry in the rain and even carry a travel companion. However, this hybrid vehicle comes with a hefty price tag of 12,000 euros, comparable to a conventional car, though not an electric one. Despite the cost, it is three times more compact than a car and can be used in bike lanes.

The bike operates with standard bicycle controls, requiring you to pedal and steer using the handlebars. This two-seater model boasts a steel frame, an aluminum sheet cabin, fabric doors, and a polycarbonate windshield. Additionally, the 'Karbikes' bicycle car offers a luggage compartment with a 400-liter capacity.

Powering the bike is a 250 W Valeo electric motor, allowing a maximum speed of 25 km per hour. It features an automatic transmission and a 1240 Wh battery, providing a range of up to 75 km on a full charge. You can charge the battery using a regular charger, or utilize the 100 W solar panel on the roof for recharging.

The 'velomobile' complies with European electric bicycle regulations. Karbikes has also developed a cargo version with a capacity of 1 cubic meter and a load capacity of up to 150 kg.

To enhance urban usability, the 'Karbike' includes rear-view mirrors, a horn, an integrated alarm system, and LED lighting with turn signals. This blend of features makes it a luxurious yet practical option for city commuting. 

So next time you choose a bike, think about the Karbike, especially if you live in a country where it's raining or snowing a lot.