A Pedal-Electric Hybrid That's Half Bike, Half Car: Meet The Hopper

Navigating city traffic can be a nightmare, but a new vehicle from Germany promises to change that. The Hopper, a semi-enclosed three-wheeler, combines the agility of a bike with the comfort of a car, offering a green solution for urban travel. Developed by Hamburg-based startup Hopper Mobility, this innovative vehicle is designed to make city commuting more efficient and enjoyable.

The Hopper is legally classified as an ebike, allowing it to use bike lanes and avoid traffic jams. It features a 250-watt rear hub motor that can reach speeds of up to 16 mph, and its 30-Ah/48V/1,440-Wh lithium-iron-phosphate battery provides a range of 40 miles per charge. An optional solar panel can extend this range. The vehicle uses a pedal-by-wire system, where pedaling generates electricity to power the motor, eliminating the need for a traditional chain drive.

Safety and convenience are key aspects of the Hopper's design. It includes a full lighting system, a touchscreen control center, a windshield defogger, a security system, and USB ports. The vehicle's semi-enclosed structure offers protection from the elements, while its tadpole trike configuration ensures stability with two front bicycle tires and a rear scooter tire. The Hopper can accommodate a passenger or cargo, with models offering a second seat or a 300-liter lockable compartment.

With about 30 prototypes already in use on German streets, the Hopper is set to revolutionize urban commuting. It is available for preorder at $14,677, with production expected to ramp up later this year. As Hopper Mobility explores global markets, this eco-friendly vehicle could soon become a common sight in cities worldwide.

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