Norwegian startup Podbike had a great start on the personal mobility market with its weird Frikar hybrid vehicle, part car, part e-bike. The unusual four-wheeler turned out to be such a hit that the company will begin first deliveries sooner than initially announced, with the number of pre-orders exceeding its expectations.
Last year, Podbike stated that deliveries of its four-wheeled e-bike are scheduled to start sometime in 2023, with pre-orders being open since fall. Now the company boasts more than 3,400 pre-orders and counting. On the official website, Podbike now specifies that deliveries are planned to start this year.
As expected, the first lucky customers to receive their one-of-a-kind e-bikes will be those in Norway, since it is the closest to Podbike’s Research & Development department. Germany is also on top of the list, as many of the company’s clients are from that country.
The Frikar is meant to replace short distance car travel, being a great solution to both avoiding high traffic and reducing emissions. This re-invented velomobile, as Podbike likes to call it, is designed for the Nordic climate, offering complete weather protection. As extra options, you can also benefit from heating and a filtered air cabin. During hot days, you can remove the canopy.
This single-seater (you can also opt for an additional child seat) passes as a cycle in Europe, which means you don’t require a license and you can use it on bike lanes. It measures 2,3 m (7.5 ft) in length and 0.84 m (2.7 ft) in width, being able to fit people with a maximum height of 2 m (6.5 ft).
While it operates like a bike, featuring functional pedals, their purpose is to power a generator, with no chain or belt being part of the scheme. Unlike regular e-bikes, the Frikar packs three motors, with two of them serving as electronic transmission and another one acting as assist motor/electronic brake. Although the speed is technically limited to 25 kph (16 mph) due to European regulations, by continuing to pedal, you can reach up to 60 kph (37 mph) downhill, depending on factors such as rolling resistance, inclination, etc.
The Podbike Frikar is powered by an 877 Wh battery that promises up to 80 km (50 miles) on a range. You can further extend that range via a power module that allows you to carry two battery packs.
Right now, pricing for the four-wheeled e-bike starts at €6,250 (approximately $7,100).
Cristina’s always found writing more comfortable to do than speaking, which is why she chose print over broadcast media in college. When she’s not typing, she also loves riding non-motorized two-wheelers, going on hikes with her dog, and rocking her electric guitars. Full profile
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