[faster and faster] - Motochimp defines electric bike coolness

[Ninjette Newsbot]

The Motochimp is the coolest little bike we've seen in a long time...* :-)

So what is this thing anyway? Well, Motochimp is a tiny electric bike that was launched at the Shenzhen International Industrial Design Fair this week, and will soon go on sale in Japan, followed by other Asian markets, the UK and parts of Europe. Designed by Singapore’s Vanda Electrics, the Motochimp will be priced from US$2,000. The bike's lithium-ion batteries can be charged in 60 minutes and provides a range of up to 60kph.

Despite its diminutive size, the Motochimp may be stronger than it looks - it's made of extruded 6061 aluminum alloy and is available in red, blue and yellow. It is, of course, a very compact bike, measuring just over a metre long and with a wheelbase of just 750mm, which makes it easy to be ridden on crowded streets and busy walkways. Power comes from a 48V 350W electric motor, mounted in the rear wheel hub, which provides enough juice for the 'Chimp to reach speeds of up to 30kph.

The Motochimp dispenses with the traditional key, which is replaced by a contactless digital ignition lock. Using RFID technology, owners simply hover their digital ‘key’ over the transponder. Each pair has a unique digital ID code, ensuring that the Motochimp only responds to its owner. "Motochimp really celebrates the indie spirit of spontaneous urban mobility. It’s sustainable yet sassy, cost-effective yet cool, eco-friendly yet bursting with personality," says Vanda Electrics CEO, Larissa Tan. "In designing Motochimp, our original concept was inspired by a sketch from a 10-year old girl. At Vanda Electrics, we want to revolutionise electric transport on a global scale, and Motochimp is key to that. It’s the new face of city transport – bold, edgy, fun," she adds. Yeah, well, it really is cool!! ;-)
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