Lexus Previews Hybrid Bicycle Concept

Leaving the four-wheeled work aside a bit, luxury manufacturer Lexus recently presented the Hybrid Bicycle concept, which stays true to the carmaker’s design language. Lexus has brought what is one of the only two examples in existence to the UK for the first time, following the bicycle’s debut at the 2009 Tokyo motor show.

The Hybrid Bicycle features an electric eight-speed transmission and lightweight carbon fibre construction. The pedal movement boosts power to the front wheel from a 240W electric motor, via a 25.9V Lithium-ion battery, with a choice of Eco or Power modes.

"The Lexus Hybrid Bicycle has all-wheel drive, by means of a belt system. It is equipped with an electric eight-speed Shimano internal gear system, which references the sophisticated eight-speed shift-by-wire automatic transmission of Lexus’s LS 600h limousine," a company statement reads.

"The carbon fibre construction shares the same light-but-strong composite materials technology that was used on Valentino Rossi’s MotoGP-winning motorcycle."

However, Lexus says the Hybrid Bicycle concept is less likely to become a production model.

Lexus Hybrid Bicycle Concept specifications:

• Length (mm) - 1,598
• Width (mm) - 425
• Seat height (mm) - 900
• Wheelbase (mm) - 1,080
• Tyre size - 20 x 1 3/8
• Weight (kg) - 17
• Motor output (W) - 240
• Battery type - Lithium-ion
• Battery voltage - 25.9V/4.0Ah
• Charge time - Approx. 2hrs
• Gear system - Shimano 8-speed internal gear
• Shift lever - Shimano dual control
• Drive train - Belt drive