In the last decade, logistics companies have been seeking more efficient, more economical, and more environmentally friendly modes of delivery, with the sector transitioning to electrification and aligning with the current efforts for sustainable development in urban areas. A unique green logistics solution for last-mile deliveries comes from Israeli startup PNY, which has created the Ponie, an electric cargo motorcycle with storage space for parcels, tools, or supplies.
Because they are quite compact and don't obstruct traffic or parking, electric bicycles and scooters have emerged as advantageous cargo solutions for urban last-mile delivery services, especially for short distances and low volumes of goods. Fleets of electric cargo bikes already operate in densely populated cities in the US, UK, and Europe. But what happens when these two-wheelers are big or capable enough?
The masterminds behind the PNY Ponie, a company founded in Kadima in 2020, figured that an electric cargo motorbike would be better suited for heavy hauling in congested urban areas, particularly where the access of big trucks or vans may be prohibited.
Designed specifically for cargo duty and deliveries, the Ponie comes with 400 liters (14 cubic feet) of storage space and can carry up to 265 pounds (120 kg) of cargo. To put this into perspective, the trunk of a small city car has an average of 300 liters (10.5 cubic feet) of space.
The motorcycle features a simple construction with an angular silhouette and no pedals. It is strong, nimble, and durable, and the designers claim it can easily replace delivery vans. Its slim design means it can effortlessly glide through city streets, and its no-frills structure ensures reduced maintenance and repair costs.
Photo: PNY
The entire central section of the frame is designed to accommodate cargo, and there is also a generous rear rack. In total, the motorbike can carry three of those insulated food bags delivery riders usually carry on their bikes. When used for other applications apart from food delivery, the Ponie has an optional hardcase storage trunk that fills that central section. In this case, there is still room for additional cargo on the rear rack.
Though the design is focused mainly on its cargo-carrying capacities, the Ponie is still a motorcycle through and through. It is powered by a robust 4,000-watt continuous-rated rear hub motor, mated with a 6.7 kWh CATL battery. It is said to reach a top speed of 62 mph (100 kph) and offer a range of up to 93 miles (150 km) on a single charge, which is quite impressive.
The choice of a rear hub motor for this cargo motorbike is not coincidental, either, as it helps maximize storage space within the frame.
Other noteworthy features include a large, lockable glovebox with a USB port for charging devices, a CarPlay-ready 7-inch color screen, and ABS-fitted disc brakes for efficient stopping power.
The company has developed two variants of the Ponie motorcycle: Ponie P2, which has already been homologated for use in Europe as an L3e class motorcycle, and Ponie P3, a three-wheeled model that in the testing phase.
With the carrying capacity of a spacious family car and the nimbleness of a two-wheeled vehicle, the PNY Ponie has the ability to slip past traffic and make last-mile delivery more efficient, so we definitely see this kind of electric vehicle dominating urban delivery in the near future.
After spending a few years as a copy editor, Ancuta decided to put down the eraser and pick up the writer's pencil. Her favorites subjects are unusual car designs, travel trailers and everything related to the great outdoors. Full profile
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