If you’ve seen the Flintstone’s, then Canyon’s new Future Mobility Concept vehicle may remind you of a futuristic version of Fred’s car. The car has four wheels, an enclosed cockpit, and a pedal-assisted electric bike under its hood.
The German bicycle manufacturer claims the design offers “a revolutionary alternative to both the automobile and the bicycle” by providing the driver with shelter and increased storage space while cutting down traffic time and CO2 emissions.
The vehicle’s chrome shell slightly resembles a smaller, more rounded version of Tesla’s infamous Cybertruck. Underneath the exterior, it’s basically a cruise-like e-bike, in which the driver sits somewhat reclined while pedaling. Two under-seat joysticks are used to steer the vehicle.
Since the vehicle is both electric and manual, it has two different speed modes. On a cycle path, it can travel up to 25 kilometers per hour and up to 60 kilometers on regular roads, with its 2000 watt-hour battery pack. Overall, the vehicle could travel 150 kilometers per charge.
The two meters long and 83 centimeters wide vehicle could easily weave through traffic. There’s enough space behind the driver for groceries, luggage, or even a child under 11-years-old.
Canyon claims:
It’s fast and stable enough to fly down the open road, yet light and agile enough to slide into the bike lane when things get backed up.
The shock absorbent capsule that encases the rider features a panoramic windshield complete with heaters and wipers to rid of the fog. At the same time, an internal compartment can be sealed to protect against wind or rain.
The Canon team was inspired to build this car-bike hybrid from the awareness that regardless of scooters and e-bikes becoming more popular, 45% of potential users still want transport with better protection.
The vehicle can be accessed by sliding a door on top of the capsule forwards and then hopping in, rather than opening a door on the side. For a convertible driving experience, the top could be left partially open.
The Future Mobility Concept vehicle was developed in collaboration with Canyon and the Technical University of Aachen. It now sits in Canyon’s showroom in Koblenz, Germany, together with its two latest e-bikes.
