The use of bicycles in France has been on an upward trend, particularly since the period of Covid-19Covid-19with an overall increase of 75% between 2013 and 2022, 18% between 2019 and 2021 and 13% between 2021 and 2022. Several pitfalls, however, slow down its evolution, such as vulnerability to automobilesautomobiles in particular and comfort during unfavorable weather periods. A problem that Karkibes intends to address with his vehicle at the crossroads of the bicycle and the car.
A bike with 4 wheels and a body
« 75% of accidentsaccidents cycling are due to a loss of balance on the part of the cyclist », Explain the founders. They therefore designed a model with the stability of four wheels, but also the protection of the chassis and bodywork. A partially convertible body for sunny days with the toittoitTHE windowswindows and the porteporte retractable trunk. The rear seat can transport an adult or two children, or serve as storage space. The vehicle also has a feufeu stop, turn signals and a horn. Three times more compact than a car, it is suitable for cycle paths.
Three times more compact than a car, the vehicle is suitable for cycle paths. © Karbikes
A range of 75 kilometers
Equipped with 250 W electric cargo bike assistance and a 1,240 Wh battery, the bike has a range of 75 kilometers, which can be extended thanks to the combined contribution of pedaling, the solar panel and the recovery ofenergyenergy when braking.
The project, born in Strasbourg in 2021, is still in development, but the first examples should see the light of day soon at a cost of around 12,000 euros.
