The past year has seen an abundance of bike manufacturers entering into the electric bike arena with slick, lightweight and powerful bikes. Despite misconceptions, electric bikes allow commuters to increase their range safely and arrive to the office smelling fresh, while still getting exercise (yes, you still have to pedal an electric bike) and reducing their carbon footprint. They also continually beat cars in commuter races. An efficient electric bike may be just the push one needs to make the decision to give up the car and commute by bike. Electric bikes are also efficient for running errands, towing things (like kids), and for the elderly or for those with physical ailments. It can be difficult to navigate your way through all the options and styles available in an electric bike so we’ve done it for you. By studying forums and sites such as NYCeWheels, A to B Magazine, BikeForums.net, and Electric Bike Report, we’ve come up with a list of the best electric bikes for 2011.

What To Look For In An Electric Bike

The choice of an electric bike is quite personal, depending upon budget and the intended use. In it’s simplest definition an electric bike is a basic traditional bike with 3 things added to it: a motor, a battery, and a controller that administers the power. There are 2 different types of controllers: throttle and pedal-assist. The throttle-based system will give you the option to ride without pedaling. The pedal-assist is activated by pedaling, but you can control the level of assistance you get through a control panel on the handlebar. Some people find the pedal-assist more simple to use and more true to being a bicycle, while others prefer the throttle and like the idea of having moments where you don’t have to pedal. The best advice is to try each one out at your local bike shop to see which type you prefer.

When it comes to price the thing to keep in perspective is what you’ll be using it for. If you’re looking for an efficient commuter, then in comparison to a car, an electric bike is a bargain, not to mention all you’ll save in gas. If you’re looking for something strictly for recreation, then cost may be more of a consideration. It is also suggested that you purchase a high quality lock or three if you’ll be leaving it out and about and if the battery is removable bring it with you though some come with their own battery locks.

Kalkhoff Electric Bikes

Kalkhoff Pro Connect Sport 300

Made in Germany, Kalkhoff Bikes are perhaps the Mercedes of electric bikes. Kalkhoff has been providing European cyclists with high quality bikes for years and now they are available in the U.S.  NYCeWheels says the Pro Connect is “one of the most efficient electric bikes on the market”. Kalkhoff uses the Panasonic Pedelec brushless motor, the highest rated electric motor currently available. A to B gives the Kalkhoff 5 out of 5 stars. The integrated maintenance-free motor offers 3 levels of pedal-activated assistance using 300 watts with a top speed of 25 mph. At the moderate setting, you can expect to get 50 miles from a full charge. Bicycle purists like that the Kalkhoff looks like a regular bike. With a lightweight aluminum frame, Shimano components, and Continental puncture-resistant tires, the motor isn’t the only thing that’s top notch about this bike. Other features include a hydraulic braking system, on-board computer with speedometer, and front and rear integrated lighting.

So what’s not to like about the Kalkhoff? How about the price. A true case of if you want the best, you’re going to pay for it, the Pro Connect Sport 300 is listed at $3,899.00. However, this is their most expensive model. Other e-bikes in the Kalkhoff fleet go for around the $3,000 mark and the Pro Connect Sport 250 2009 model is currently on sale for $2,899.00. Kalhoff does offer free shipping and a 2 year warranty.

Check out the Kalkhoff line of electric bikes here or for information on trying one out click here.

eZee LiV Electric Bike

eZee LiV Electric Bike

The eZee LiV offers an affordable, yet reliable option for a lightweight, simple to operate electric bike. It has a range of 15-30 miles and a top speed of 20 mph. With a 200 watt brushed motor, it may not be the most powerful machine on the electric bike block, but it beats the others at a price of $1,199.00. NYCeWheels recommends this bike as best value for commuting or recreational riding if you have moderate hills and don’t plan on pulling anything or carrying a large load. eZee has a full line of throttle activated electric bikes priced under $2,000. The eZee LiV uses more basic components than the other bikes in the eZee line. It features a 3 speed drivetrain, front and rear lights, and mudguards.

Check out eZee bikes here.

2011 Kona Electric Ute Cargo Bike

2011 Kona Electric Ute Cargo Bike

Kona has added a 250 watt Pedelec motor with a 24 volt Samsung Lihium-Ion battery to it’s popular Ute cargo bike offering up one of the first electric-assisted bikes for utilitarian use. This would make a great bike for long distance touring, those who want to ditch the car to run errands, or family bike rides. In full power mode the Kona Electric Ute supplies an 18 mile range, 35 miles in normal mode, and 62 miles in economy mode.  It offers quality Shimano components, an acacia wood deck, Kona pannier bag, fenders, and a lifetime warranty on the aluminum butted frame. For a detailed review see MyCargoBike.net where criticisms include the use of a front v-brake as opposed to a disc brake and a small, but continuous electric whine of the motor. Pros included a well-proportioned, lightweight design and a conveniently integrated battery that can be removed for charging. At $2599.00, the Kona Electric Ute is considered to be competitively priced for an electric cargo bike.

For a Kona dealer near you, click here.

Schwinn Electric Bike: Tailwind

Schwinn Electric Bike: Tailwind

The Schwinn Tailwind flaunts a feature that the other electric bikes don’t have: the Toshiba battery designed specifically for this bike can recharge in an astounding 30 minutes as opposed to the usual 4 hour recharging time. The 6 pound battery can be removed easily from the rear fender rack and features the latest in lithium polymer technology. According to NYCeWheels, the lithium polymer Schwinn battery pack has about 1.4 times the power to weight ratio than lithium ion, discharges at a more consistent voltage, and has a longer life expectancy. It offers a range of 25-30 miles, depending on riding style and conditions.

The sophisticated brushless motor is designed to assist the rider, not take over. The motor kicks in after pedaling begins and shuts off when the brake is applied. Schwinn designed the Tailwind to offer a longer range for the traditional bike rider, yet still remaining true to the classic bike design. It does not offer regenerative braking, but it may be the perfect transition for those who prefer the old school look as opposed to the futuristic appearance of some of the other electric bikes. The Schwinn Tailwind MSRP is $2,679.00.

For a Schwinn dealer near you, click here.

Sanyo Eneloop Electric Bike

Sanyo Eneloop Electric Bike

An entry from last year’s list, the Sanyo Eneloop continues to be a solid entry for a high-tech electric bike. Eneloop means that the regenerative brake system recharges the battery, so pressing on the rear brake lever actually generates energy. The 250 watt brushless motor supports 2 modes of pedal-assist plus an auto mode. Standard mode output matches the energy output of the rider. Power-Up mode doubles the energy output (for hills), while the auto mode automatically switches between these 2 modes depending upon riding conditions. The Sanyo Eneloop may appeal more to the female commuter because it’s, well… pretty. Similar to the styling of a Dutch city bike, the step-through frame makes it easy to get on and off. Range is 17-35 miles depending on the mode. Customer reviews on the Sanyo Eneloop are glowing, raving that the bike is quiet, smooth, and doesn’t feel like you’re riding an electric bike. Check out NYCeWheel’s review here.

The Sanyo Eneloop currently sells on Amazon for $1,499.99.

Dahon Boost Folding Electric Bike

Dahon Boost Folding Electric Bike

For commuters who need to lug their bikes up stairs or maneuver it onto public transportation, a folding electric bike such as the Dahon Boost would be a good choice. It offers all of the advantages of an electric-assisted bike at a weight of only 43 pounds. Dahon is a leader in high quality folding bikes. The Boost folds down to the same size as their 20″ folding bike in 15 seconds. The 250 watt brushless motor offers up 3 pedal-assist modes. Features an integrated rear rack, front and rear lighting, and a control panel on the handlebar. It can go about 30 miles on a charge. With a step-through frame and adjustable seat and handlebars, this bike serves as a versatile commuter bike.

The Dahon Boost sells for $2,499.00 on Amazon or at NYCeWheels.

Trek Valencia

Trek Valencia

Trek has thrown it’s hat into the electric bike ring and maybe just the catalyst to bring the lycra set and the commuters together. They’ve turned their standard Valencia commuter bike into a electric assist hybrid with a 350 watt brushless BionX rear hub motor and regenerative braking. Trek has added electric motors to some of their other bikes as well, such as the FX and the Transport- you’ll notice a plus sign next to these to indicate the hybrid model.  Four different pedal-assist modes vary from 25% assistance to 200% assistance. In regenerative mode, you can add on average a 10% increase in battery capacity. There aren’t many reviews out yet on the Trek e-bikes, but you can read specs about them here and some first impressions by users at bike forums here.

A2B Electric Bikes by Ultra Motor

A2B Metro

Don’t be fooled by it’s size. The A2B electric bikes by Ultra Motor pack a powerful punch with a 500 watt motor, 7 speeds, and high torque for hill climbing. Treehugger says it has “the heart of a bicycle and the soul of a scooter”. You can read their full review here. The lithium-ion battery is fully integrated into the downtube. The range is 20 miles on a single charge, but that can be extended to 40 miles with the purchase of an optional second battery. Top speed is 20 mph. The throttle is on the handlebar, meaning you can pedal or not. It does weigh in at a hefty 72 pounds so it may be better for short commutes, recreational fun or a cool option for college students to get around campus. The A2B Metro sells for around $2,700.00.

NYCeWheels is an authorized dealer or you can find a dealer near you here.

IZip Metro

2011 IZip Metro Electric Bike

Now wouldn’t this be fun to zip down to the grocery store? It features a 500 watt brushless hub motor and lithium-ion battery with a top speed of 20 mph and a range of 20-35 miles. It uses both pedal-assist and throttle power and weighs in at 55 pounds. The IZip Metro retails for $2,299.00.

Other Electric Bike Manufacturers We Like:

Ohm Cycles- pictured at the beginning of this article, Ohm Cycles is a Canadian company that makes high end electric bikes.

Giant- Giant made the ever classic Lafree electric bike, which has since been discontinued, but they continue to make the Twist Freedom and Twist Express.

EcoBike- Using both a pedal-assist and manual throttle, the EcoBike is one of the easiest electric bikes to operate. They offer 3 models around the $1,500 range.

You can also purchase electric conversion kits, which is especially helpful if you already have a bike that you’re comfortable with. The BionX conversion kit is considered to be the highest in quality and can be purchased at NYCeWheels. We also like AmpedBikes, which you can read about in this post.

2012 Ford Focus Electric

Since the release of our 2011 electric car review, Ford has unveiled the new 2012 Focus Electric, first at the recent 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show, and currently at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Though showing up a little late to the electric vehicle party, Ford is flaunting the new Focus’ ability to recharge the 23 kwh lithium-ion battery in as little as 3-4 hours, half the time as that of the Nissan Leaf, by using a faster 6.6 kilowatt on-board charger plugged into an optional 240 volt charging station that can be installed in the home.

Ford Focus Electric Lithium-Ion Battery

The advanced battery system uses an active liquid cooling and heating system to keep the battery at a steady temperature in order to maximize mileage during fluctuations in driving conditions. Ford is also offering up an electric vehicle app for Smartphones which would allow the user to keep track of the charge level, map out the nearest charging stations, and estimate CO2 emissions and money saved based on driving habits to help maximize efficiency.

Ford Charging Station Sold at Best Buy

Ford has joined forces with Best Buy to sell and install the 240 volt charging stations to Focus Electric customers in their homes. The cost for this is set to run around $1,499, which is about $700 less than the charging station Nissan is offering through their car dealers. Another benefit to Ford’s charging station, manufactured by Leviton, is that it’s portable, since it’s not being permanently hard-wired into the home electrical system. Though there have been some questions raised about the feasibility of a non-permanent unit meeting electrical codes, Ford doesn’t seem to be concerned and Geek Squad technicians from Best Buy will perform an electrical audit as well as take care of all the red tape with the electric company. Best Buy is also set to provide charging stations for Mitsubishi’s new EV, the Mitsubishi i. See PlugInCars for more information on these charging stations.

Ford Focus Electric Illuminated Charge Port

Ford has yet to announce a list price for the new 2012 Ford Focus which is set to hit the market in late 2011, but insiders predict that Ford will continue on the competitive streak by selling the Focus below the Leaf’s MSRP of $32,780. The Focus has traditionally been Ford’s entry as an affordable car for the younger crowd and with the Honda Fit EV and the Mitsubishi i set to come in under $30,000, Ford could continue to make news in the electric vehicle sector.

Better Place Shows Electric Taxis Working in the Real World

Shai Agassi, founder and CEO of Better Place, has a vision — a vision for a world free of oil dependency. Mr. Agassi, who is well on his way to making this vision a reality, has what he believes is the solution for making electric vehicles efficient and affordable. He theorizes that the only way to take electric vehicles into mainstream society is to eliminate the inconvenience factor, in this case, the battery. Enter Better Place, which is already underway in Israel and Denmark. The Better Place plan is to build an infrastructure of battery charging and switch stations. What if, instead of having to plug in your car for a lengthy amount of time, you could pull into a battery exchange station and have a fully charged battery placed in your vehicle in the tenth of the time that it takes to fill up at the gas station, and without even getting out of the car?

Electric Taxis In Action

In much the same way that a cell phone company provides minutes, Better Place would sell miles to their customers. A Better Place consumer would purchase a monthly mileage package that would include charging and use of the battery switching stations. Shai Agassi tells us that this system would bring the cost of an electric vehicle down from the hard to grasp $30,000 mark to the more reasonable $15,000 price point, thus reaching a larger market and moving us closer to an oil-free lifestyle.

2011 Renault Fluence Z.E.

By partnering with Renault-Nissan, Better Place has already put the system to the test with the successful Tokyo Electric Taxi Project. Over 3,000 passengers have used the electric taxis traveling over 40,000 kilometers. Project data states that the taxi drivers went through the battery switching stations 2,122 times with the average switch time lasting 59.1 seconds. Later this year, Better Place will be delivering 115,000 Renault Fluence Z.E. electric sedans to customers in Israel and Denmark with plans to build over 100,000 EV charging stations and 100 (to start) battery exchange stations for each country.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Better Place is also working with leading battery manufacturers to provide the most reliable and up-to-date Lithium-ion batteries to place in their EVs. Shai Agassi points out that battery technology has made leaps and bounds over the past few years with considerably more storage capacity and twice the power capability, which improves the range and performance of EVs. Better Place is committed to environmentally safe practices by using recyclable batteries and renewable energy sources to power their charging stations. It will still be some time before residents in North America can pull into their local Better Place service station, but some will get the opportunity soon. Over the next 3 years, the Electric Taxi Project will unfold in the San Francisco Bay area with 4 battery exchange stations to support the electric taxi fleet. Hawaii is also on the list to begin building a foundation of Better Place charge stations starting in early 2011.

The Best Electric Bikes For Commuters: Giant Twist

Electric bikes are ideal for commuting because they allow you travel up to 30 miles in a stretch, and you are less likely to drenched in sweat when you arrive at your destination. Some models have motors that assist as you pedal, making your ride easier, especially when going up hills. Some models allow you to power the bike via a throttle mounted on the handle. Electric bikes can be plugged into any regular outlet, and usually take a couple of hours to charge. Electric bikes are difficult to find in local stores, but they are available from specialty stores online. We review some of the better e-bikes below:

Giant Twist Freedom Electric Commuter Bike

The new Giant Twist commuter bike from Giant features their “hybrid technology”. Basically, the bike intelligently adjusts to your pedaling power, making for a very smooth ride (you can read about all the details in this PDF).

The Giant Twist has two lithium-ion battery EnergyPaks for extended range. Giant says the charge lasts up to 70 miles in Economy mode, and the bike take four hours to recharge.

The entire range of Giant Electric Bikes are available from Bob’s Bicycles. They range in price from $1624 to $2,249.

The Sanyo Eneloop Electric Commuter Bike

The Sanyo Eneloop is an electric bike for commuters with two different modes of pedal assistance as well as auto mode regenerative braking. It has three speeds overall, and the 250 watt motor included is designed to be unobtrusive. The pedal assist mode is designed to contribute a 1:1 ratio of electric to human power, allowing users to scale hills easily. For those San Francisco-sized hills, the power up mode gives users a 2:1 ratio, and the bike can automatically decide which mode to use based on the degree of the hill. And when using the rear brake lever while riding down a hill, you can recharge the battery.

Owners seem to really like this bike, noting that there’s no rough transition when the motor takes over. Most claim that it maintains the feel of a regular bike and doesn’t ride like a scooter. Other users said that this electric bike for commuters is so simple to ride because the bike does all the work for you.

The Sanyo Eneloop is available at Amazon for $2,299.

The Graphite e-Moto Velocity 2.0 Electric Bike

Best Electric Bike for Commuters: e-Moto Velocity 2.0

The e-Moto Velocity 2.0 electric bike for commuters has a graphite frame, and it uses a 36V 9Ah Panasonic lithium ion battery for its 250-watt motor. The battery is said to be able to handle 35 miles before being completely drained, which is why it features a recharging plug that takes around 3 hours to fill. It also has a battery life indicator on the handlebars to let users keep track. This best electric bike for commuters also has an LED backlight and a front light that are powered by the wheel movements.

Users really like this bike and they find it to be a lifesaver in many situations. While it’s somewhat of a hassle to have to charge the bike because there’s no energy loop included, the bike is still very smooth to ride and doesn’t take over harshly when in mid-pedal. This best electric bike for commuters is a good value overall.

The e-Moto Velocity 2.0 is available at REI for $1999.

The 2010 Aleron 36v Electric Bike

Aleron Electric Bike

The Aleron 36v has a battery range of around 20 miles of assistance, and has front and rear disc brakes. Shimmano 6 speed gears are included and there are also front and rear lights for night riding. It has a larger 350-watt motor than other electric bikes and comes with a one-year warranty. There are three ways to ride this electric bike for commuters, one just lets the motor do the job, another is the pedal assistance mode that allows users to pedal with the motor to extend the battery life a bit, and the last mode is standard bike mode.

Owners, calling it so easy to ride that you forget you’re on a bike, laud the Aleron. The green aspects of this best electric bike for commuters has piqued the interest of many owners, which they claim has pushed them into investing in the bike. Most users claim it’s sometimes a bit heavy when pedaling normally, but overall it’s a lightweight bike.

The Aleron 36v is available at Amazon for $1499.

The Folding Dex 36v Ebike

Folding Dex 36v Bike

Unlike other best electric bikes for commuters, the Dex 36v is a folding bike as well, providing users with the convenience of having more trunk space. It uses a 36v battery and features front disc brakes. It also has a suspension seat post and a one-year warranty. It’s said that it can reach a top of speed of around 20 miles per hour. There is also a pedal assist mode that allows the user to pedal with the motor to extend the battery life.

Users really like the Dex, calling it simple and fun to ride. Other users call it extremely efficient and because of the zero emissions from using it, it’s carbon neutral. One user notes that it costs less than four cents to charge the battery fully. Overall it’s a solid value for the efficiency and feature set.

The Dex 36v is available at Amazon for $1399.

Toshiba Dynario Fuel Cell Device Charger (photo: Toshiba)

The first commercially available fuel cell device charger is here! (Well, technically it’s only “here” if you’re reading this in Japan, but that should soon change). Toshiba’s Dynario charger packs fuel cell technology into a portable package that can provide instant power to a dead mobile phone or other gadget, completely off the grid.

The Dynario uses small amounts of highly concentrated methanol along with ambient oxygen to create the power-producing chemical reaction. Users simply add a pre-packaged dose of methanol to the charger, which generates enough juice in a matter of seconds to fully charge two mobile phones. An internal lithium-ion battery stores the power that’s created, and the Dynario uses a standard USB cable as its output.

Toshiba Dynario Fuel Cell Device Charger (photo: Toshiba)

The limited run of 3,000 units was released in Japan at the end of October, retailing for about US$330. Replacement methanol packs are available for around $6 each. Toshiba states that it is treating the Dynario as a sort of market test, keeping a close eye on consumers’ reactions to the charger. As mobile devices continue to get more power-thirsty, more advanced fuel cell chargers are likely to appear in other markets worldwide.

Toshiba Japan – Dynario Press Release

Yesterday, GM and Segway unveiled an electric-powered urban vehicle called the Puma. The Puma seats two people, and is said to reach a top speed of 35 miles per hour. The vehicle can go 35 miles before needing a recharge.

Larry Burns, vice president of research and development for GM, said it would cost about 35 cents to charge the Puma’s lithium ion battery system — essentially a larger version of the power system for the Segway Personal Transporter.The Puma balances on two large wheels while driving. For safety, it employs two sets of wheels in the front and back — similar to drag-racing vehicles — to prevent it from tipping over. When it parks, it rests on the front set of wheels.

Deploying the GM OnStar navigation systems and the latest in robot-driving technology, the Puma could potentially drive by itself and even receive messages from other cars to help it avoid potholes. It could drop you off at work, find a place to park and then pick you up at the end of the day at a designated time. The Internet connectivity would allow Web surfing and all the other features offered from portable handheld devices.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Bill Mitchell, an urban-planning guru and professor at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, said the time is ripe for new types of electric vehicles that can fit into tiny parking spaces and reduce smog — whether they come from GM or some other company.

“The need is enormous,” he commented. “Cities need small, convenient electric vehicles that reduce congestion. The technology to do that exists now.”

GM isn’t talking about a price for the Puma yet or providing sales targets, but it hopes to have a new prototype ready by the fall for display to the media

The sales of commuters bikes in the U.S. have grown quickly in the last couple years. Commuter bikes are those that include features useful for commuting to work or around town — like fenders, chain guards, storage racks, comfortable seats, lights and puncture-resistant tires. You may also be interested our reviews of folding bikes and electric commuter bikes and women’s commuter bikes.

Update: See our article Best Commuters Bikes For 2011.

Let’s take a look at some the best commuter bikes of 2010:

Raleigh Detour Deluxe 2010 Commuter Bike

The Detour Deluxe is designed specifically for commuters — it comes standard with a rack, fenders, a headlight and a comfortable seat. The aluminum frame is lightweight but strong enough to carry cargo around town.

The Basta Pilot light system is a nice addition for the commuter. Both the headlight and taillight is powered by the generator in the hub of the bike. The lights can be set to automatic. When you hit a dark patch the lights will automatically flip on and when you come out into the light again they’ll turn back off.

The Raleigh Detour Deluxe Commuter Bike is available from REI for around $740.

Electra Townie Euro 24D Commuter Bike

The Electra Townie Euro is a comfortable bike with many practical features for commuters.

It includes dynamo-powered halogen headlight, a battery-powered LED rear light, kickstand and an alloy rear rack with strap.

The bike’s geometry places pedals well ahead of the seatpost, resulting in leg movement that many people find more stable than other designs.

The tires have a Kevlar puncture-resistant casing and reflective sidewalls. Nice!

It’s available from REI for $700.

Giant Twist Freedom Commuter Bike

The new Giant Twist commuter bike from Giant features their “hybrid technology”. Basically, the bike intelligently adjusts to your pedaling power, making for a very smooth ride (you can read about all the details in this PDF).

The Giant Twist has two lithium-ion battery EnergyPaks for extended range. Giant says the charge lasts up to 70 miles in Economy mode, and the bike take four hours to recharge.

The entire range of Giant Electric Bikes are available from Bob’s Bicycles. They range in price from $1624 to $2,249.

Schwinn World Avenue One Commuter Bike

The Schwinn World Avenue is an affordable commuter bike that is built for comfortable urban riding. It has a large saddle, and a seat post with built-in suspension. The World Avenue also comes with Planet Bike fenders and rear carrier, a full chain guard, a kickstand and a bell.

The World Avenue is priced around $500 from Amazon.

Huffy Commuter Bike

If you’re looking for an inexpensive commuter bike, Huffy sell this commuter bike under $150. The bike comes standard with fenders and a rear rack. However, at this price level, bike components tend to be cheaply made, so owners may find that they need to pay for repairs and replacements quite soon. But if you are on a budget, and need an entry-level commuter bike, you might consider this one.

The Huffy Commuter bike is available from Sears for about $180.

The Kona Ute Cargo Bike

The Kona Ute is a good choice if you’ll be carrying cargo around town.

The Ute features a huge rack which is capable of carrying four panniers. This bike’s geometry is designed to make carrying groceries on your bike a breeze. It has an extended utility frame made out of butted 7005 aluminum for heavy load-carrying ability. It also comes with some nice additions like fenders and quality handlebar grips.

The Ute is available at Bike Sale.

Felt Cafe 8 Deluxe Commuter Bike

The Felt Cafe 8 Deluxe is a lightweight commuter bike, that Felt describes as “a real-world answer to bicycle commuting and any local store runs.” It’s priced around $600.

Biria Lite 3 Speed Trekking and Commuter Bike

Biria bikes are designed in Germany. The Biria Trekking Lite is a quality commuter bike for under $500.

This three-speed bike has Shimano Nexus internal gear hub. This means there is no external derailleur for shifting — it’s all internal for low maintenance and ease-of-use. The Trekking Lite includes a chainguard, kickstand, rack and fenders.

It’s available from BikeMania for $490.

More Commuter Bikes

You can also find a good range of commuter bikes at the Commuter Bike Store.

Toshiba has developed a new lithium-ion battery called SCiB (or Super Charge Ion Battery) which can charge to 90% capacity in 5 minutes. The life cycle of the new battery is more than 10 years even if it is rapidly charged and discharged many times. The battery is also mucher safer than other types of lithium ion batteries, which are potential fire hazards.

Toshiba will begin commercial production of the battery in March 2008. The company says the battery can be used in electric motorcycles and hybrid cars. Toshiba currently makes 150,000 cells a month, mostly for electric bicycles.

Toshiba says its batteries use a lithium-titanium oxide negative electrode. That makes the batteries more stable than typical lithium ion batteries, which use carbon-based negative electrodes.

The company also unveiled a bike manufactured by Cannondale Sports Group that uses the quick-charging lithium ion battery. The SCiB battery uses lithium titanate for enhanced safety and is made up of ten battery cells connected in series. See more information about this bike at CleanTechnica.

The key feature of the battery is the use of lithium titanate (Li₄Ti₅O₁₂) is used as a negative electrode material with electrolyte with a high flash point and a separator with a high heat resistance. Because of this feature, a thermal runaway is less likely to occur in case of an internal short-circuit, so the risks of burst and combustion are reduced, Toshiba said.

For a positive-electrode material, lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO₂) was adopted as in the case of Li-ion secondary batteries for portable devices.

A company called M2E Power has announced plans today to release a charger that will powered by kinetic motion. The released date is expected to be next summer. The charger derives power from the motion of walking, jogging, cycling, or driving. Six hours of motion provides 30 to 60 minutes of charging power. It will be priced between $25 and $40.

The kinetic energy system uses the Faraday Effect –  a magnet moves against a coil every time the charger moves, generating a charge that is captured in a capacitor. A logic circuit takes the charge to the built-in lithium-ion battery, where it is stored until needed.

On a larger scale, M2E hopes to use kinetic energy to enhance wind, hydropower, and tidal power efficiency.

Via CleanTechnica

A company called Ultra Motor has released a new electric bike called the A2B. This bike looks great – I like the functional, minimalist style. The A2B is designed for urban or suburban commutes. According to Ultra Motors, the A2B offers unassisted power on demand for up to 20 miles at a cruising speed of 20mph. At that speed it’s still categorized as a bicycle as opposed to a scooter, moped or motorcycle. No special license is required.

You can double the range by carrying an optional (and more visible) $399 secondary battery pack. You can increase its carrying capacity with the addition of baskets and rear carrier bags.

The 73-pound bike is constructed with aluminum, and it features full suspension, and a 500-watt motor. The lithium-ion battery is well-concealed under the down tube. It will retail for $2500.

The CEO of Ultra Motors, Chris Deyo, says this about the A2B’s price:

If you compare the one-time price of the A2B to the ongoing costs of commuting by car, moped or motorcycle–given the cost of gas, insurance, maintenance, parking, and parking tickets–it’s not so steep. “We found, in talking to folks, that (at) $2,500, it’s a considered purchase, but it’s of value to them,” Deyo said.

Ultra Motor’s design team is in Germany, and manufacturing is in Taiwan. The company’s global headquarters are in London, with the US operation is based in San Francisco, California. Ultra Motor offers two other electric bikes, the Europa and the Portia.

The A2B is expected to be available in September, most likely from bicycle, scooter, and motorcycle dealerships.

Home Page: Ultra Motor

Link: Press Release