Ford, a name synonymous with traditional automotive manufacturing, is clearly changing its approach to embrace a more efficient, economical, and, without a doubt, electric future. After launching programs for vehicle sharing and rental, Ford now introduces the MoDe:Flex eBike, an electric bicycle that can be easily disassembled and carried in the trunk—an ideal solution for those moments when it's better to leave the car behind.
Ford just unveiled the prototype of an electric bicycle. No, I'm not crazy. The same company that celebrated 112 years last week, the creator of historical vehicles like the Model T and the F-150, shared images of the MoDe:Flex eBike on its Twitter account. Some might wonder: “What's the fine print?” At first glance, there doesn't seem to be any. All players in the automotive industry are going through a period of change and rediscovery. Oil prices remain low, but electric cars are slowly winning the streets. Add to that initiatives like Uber, adopted by a huge number of people who find it much more convenient to share or rent cars.
Now, to be fair to Ford: This is not its first electric bicycle. In fact, the MoDe:Flex eBike is the third model with these characteristics, joining the MoDe:Me and MoDe:Pro. According to available data, the motor is 200 watts, its battery is 9Ah, and it reaches a maximum speed of 25 kilometers per hour in assisted mode. But the most interesting aspect of the bicycle is its modularity. The user can swap wheels, motor, and batteries depending on the type of terrain, while the frame “splits in two” with minimal effort, making it easy to store in the trunk. As for safety, the MoDe:Flex eBike's handlebar vibrates when a car approaches, and, unsurprisingly, the bicycle comes with the MoDe:Link app, which provides information about traffic, weather, parking costs, and, if used with a smartwatch, your physical condition.
Price? We have no idea. All Ford did was confirm its prototype status, but something tells me the MoDe:Flex eBike will be offered as an optional accessory with the sale of several models. After all, Ford doesn't want to stop selling units. Many people have managed to completely replace their car with a bicycle, but Ford's plan is to offer the best of both worlds. Will that be enough? We'll soon find out.
Source: Engadget
