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Kia Teases K-Velo Electric Bike, Two Flavors of e-Mobility Said to Arrive at the Geneva Motor Show

Korean manufacturer Kia started teasing its all-new electric bicycle project called K-Velo EV. The new bikes are said to be unveiled at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show in early March. After BMW added electric bicycles to its vehicle line-up as a complement for cars and motorcycles, it’s really interesting seeing Kia bringing electric two-wheelers as well.
Kia K-Velo EV 1 photo
Photo: KIA
In case you didn’t know, bicycles are not exactly a new thing for Kia, as the company actually started as a bike builder back in 1944. However, electric bicycles are a thing of novelty and a most welcome addition in the personal transport segment. Right now info on the K-Velo EV is rather scarce, but we have reasons to believe that this is more than a mere prototype and we’ll get to see these bikes entering mass production.

Kia K-Velo EV offered in city and mountain bike flavors

Kia has prepared two K-Velo EV versions, according to bestbicycletrailer. K-Velo will debut a City and an MTB model, each powered by a 250W Bosch motor. The power unit will produce 45Nm (33 lb-ft) of torque on tap, with juice coming from a 36V, 10 amp lithium-ion battery.

The City version is said to have a step-through frame and 28” wheels, while the MTB will have smaller wheels (27.5”) shod with special tires and mudguards. Both bikes will sport a metal monocoque frame incorporating the battery, and the City version will have its battery pack mounted in the rear section, as opposed to the MTB which will have a mid-section battery compartment.

Both models will have approximately the same weight, tipping the scales at 20 kg (44 lb), but the range they provide will be different. While top speed is expected to be 25 km/h (15 mph), the City will deliver a 70 km (43 miles) range, whereas the MTB will only offer 50 km (31 miles) of electric fun.

Kia K-Velo City and K-velo MTB will be on display starting March 3 at the Geneva Motor Show 2015.
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