It looks like a tiny semi-truck and trailer, with the driver sitting in an enclosed cab and pulling a spacious cargo trailer behind, but instead of burning fossil fuels for power, the Cityshuttle ePack is pedaled like a bicycle. This zero emission light goods vehicle could be a key element … [continued]
Some thoughts:
- Semi-trailers (aka what everyone calls a trailer, but full trailers are rarer now) are GOAT for expanding payload capacity for the same prime mover, and to drop the trailer and pick up a new one, improving operational efficiency. We’ve known this for a century
- The description says “cargo-specific brakes” but I hope that implies brakes on the trailer wheels. 350 kg unbraked would be uncontrollable or hazardous if things go south. Yes, this would require a hydraulic brake coupler from cab to trailer, similar to what big rigs use. But seeing as they have CCTV in the trailer, they’re already running lines to the back.
- This setup is 5 meters long. Are there no mirrors??
Interesting idea. Seems well-suited to urban distribution (eg restocking convenience stores), or as a suburban mobile distribution point, taking up a position to launch smaller bikes for last-mile delivery.
Re: mirrors, I wonder if the CCTV system also streams external footage to use in place of mirrors
That’s certainly plausible. The typical requirement to keep auxiliary/infotainment systems separate from safety systems in automobiles doesn’t really make much sense here, so reusing the cameras might work. Still, though, it’s not like the air resistance of some extra mirrors would be a huge problem.
“Every journey turns the vehicle into an advertising opportunity!”
Yay?
Can we please ban animated signs visible to traffic, please?
I wish, touchscreen controls on vehicles too!
Yeah sure, just get rid of all the traffic.
Problem solved.
Honestly, though - how much energy is that guy contributing to the demand of that rig, percent-wise?
Article says 2 250w motors, so I’m guessing Max 30% input from the rider. I’ve got a 750w ebike myself and know it struggles to haul my 350lb/150kg butt up steep hills, so I wonder if we’ll see any of these going backwards down some hills
B*tch, I’m semi.
Good idea!
