Lexus Hybrid Bicycle Concept 1: Innovation on two wheels
Lexus Hybrid Bicycle design concept captures fundamental values of Lexus engineering and design
Lexus has established itself as an industry leader in bringing advanced technologies to the premium car market. Now it has applied the same thinking on a smaller scale to create the Lexus Hybrid Bicycle, a design concept the captures the fundamental engineering and design values of the brand, but with two wheels rather than four.
First displayed at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, and drawing on Lexus’ L-finesse design philosophy, the hybrid bicycle’s lightweight, carbon-fibre frame is engaging and elegant. It also takes inspiration from Lexus' unique hybrid drive to offer a rider-powered electric eight-speed transmission.
Lexus has pioneered high performance, low emissions and optimum fuel efficiency with its full hybrid Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain technology. The Hybrid Bicycle adopts similar principles, with the pedal power of the rider boosted by assistance to the front wheel from a 240W electric motor, via a 25.9V Lithium-ion battery, with a choice of Eco or Power modes. And, as with Lexus Hybrid Drive, there is an energy regeneration function that helps recharge the battery by capturing kinetic energy generated under braking.
The Lexus Hybrid Bicycle is all-wheel drive, by means of a belt system, and is equipped with an electric eight-speed Shimano internal gear system. The gear system draws inspiration from the sophisticated eight-speed shift-by-wire automatic transmission of Lexus's flagship luxury hybrid, the LS 600h L.
The carbon fibre construction shares the same light-but-strong composite materials technology that was used on Valentino Rossi's MotoGP-winning motorcycle.
There are currently no plans for the Lexus Hybrid Bicycle to become a production model.
