Semi-enclosed reclining e-trike makes the difference between a bike and a car

Maybe you like the idea of ​​riding your bike to work, but the thought of sitting hunched over the handlebars in the wind and rain puts you off. Then the semi-enclosed VeMoo reclining e-trike could be just the thing for you.

Not to be confused with the unrelated Veemo velomobile, the VeMoo was invented by French entrepreneurs Sebastian Hurstel and Arnaud Audrezet.

The base of the vehicle is a recumbent tricycle with three suspended 26-inch wheels, the front two of which increase stability and performance by leaning as the tricycle makes turns. The rider’s pedaling power is transferred to the rear wheel via a 3×8 drivetrain and boosted by a 250W hub motor producing 60Nm (44lb ft) of torque.

This motor is in turn powered by a 460 Wh lithium-ion battery, which is said to provide a range of up to 100 km (62 miles) per charge. The trike has an electric top speed of 25 km/h (16 mph) and is stopped by hydraulic disc brakes at the front and a drum brake at the rear.

VeMoo

While specifications for the production model may change, the current prototype sources its components from manufacturers such as RockShox (suspension), SunRace (drivetrain), Sturmey-Archer (rear brake), Schwalbe (tires) and Actia (engine).

As with most other recumbent tricycles, the rider lies on a padded seat with a backrest. However, unlike these other recumbents, the VeMoo has body panels that provide this some Weather protection, improve the aerodynamics of the trike and offer storage space.

They are made of DIBOND, a composite material consisting of two aluminum layers with a polyethylene core between them. Because these panels do not completely enclose the driver (like Is (which is the case with most velomobiles), ventilation is not a problem, nor is getting in and out.

VeMoo

At the bottom of the panel, directly in front of the driver, there is a lockable 7-liter glove compartment with integrated lighting and USB ports for charging smartphones. The panels at the very front of the VeMoo are actually the sides of a lockable 55 liter trunk that can be removed from the trike and rolled on its own wheels.

The trike’s fairings also house two side mirrors as well as a full AXA lighting system front and rear, including indicators. And should it start to rain, the driver can quickly install an included Rainjoy Bub-up windshield/roof.

VeMoo

We’re told the latest prototype tips the scales at around 80kg (176lb), although the production model’s target weight is a much lighter 60kg (132lb). And if you want to get one of these series VeMoos, expect to spend around €12,000 (around $12,655). The company is now taking deposits of €2,000 ($2,109) and expects to begin deliveries to buyers next year.

You can see the prototype in action in the video below.

Source: VeMoo