The Sherpa Folding Electric Bike

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April 15, 2005 Silent, powerful with a range far greater than could have been conceived just a few short years ago, electric bicycles look set to play a role in the future of transportation. Second generation electric bikes are beginning to appear and they are a far cry from the first generation. A prime example of just how far we have come is the second generation Sherpa from Electric Vehicles – it can be pedaled if you wish, but it goes faster than you can pedal with a top speed of 30kmh a range of 30 kilometres, and the ability to fold into the size of a small suitcase (830 x 350 x 610mm). At US$1050, it represents such an economical and convenient “second” form of transport that it is finding its way into motorhomes, boats, inner city apartments and anyone who lives within 20km of their workplace. And it doesn’t require a license!

With a top speed of 30kmh, the Sherpa will outpace a lycra-suited semi-professional rider on a racing bike, has a range of 30 km (upgradable to 45 km), can be recharged to 60% capacity inside an hour and it folds up so small it can be stashed in the trunk of a small car.

“The first model Sherpa has been around for two years and has a strong global following, but the new model is a significant leap forward,” said Electric Vehicles (EVS) spokesperson Cary de Wit.

“The best thing about this product is that you can fold it down to such a small size so that it becomes a very convenient form of transport that can disappear behind a door or under a desk,” said de Wit.

The range of the standard Sherpa is roughly 30 kilometres though this will vary depending on the size and weight of the rider.

“If you are prepared to pedal, you can subsidise the power requirements considerably and get much more mileage from it”, said de Wit.

“We also have an advanced battery pack option that extends the electric range to 45 kilometres and that makes it suitable for almost all local area transport and inner city commuting requirements,’ said de Wit.

“The interesting thing is that with its 30kmh top speed, it also means that from point to point, it’s roughly as quick as a car in the inner city.

You’ll notice that often when you are driving, someone on a pushbike will keep passing you when you are stopped because you can’t drive above 30 kmh that much in the inner city drive cycle.

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