Automotive manufacturer 3423 Ford is developing an electric bike prototype called the E-Bike. The firm is working on the concept as it believes that E-bikes may well sell in higher numbers than electric cars over the next decade. The frame is built from carbon fibre and aluminium, while sophisticated magnetostrictive sensors regulate precisely how the electric motor in the front wheel-hub, engages and assists the rider. A lithium-ion battery stores the electric power, while the rider provides pedal power through a carbon belt-drive system to a Shimano 11 speed hub-gear, dispensing with the traditional bicycle chain. The E-Bike is said to offer a range of 80km. It is worth noting that Ford will also continue its development of hybrid and battery cars however.
