Concept bike closes gap between pedelec and motorbike
BMW calls the i Vision AMBY a “high-speed pedelec for urbanists”. At first look, the two-wheeler resembles a pedelec, but is supposed to offer significantly more possibilities. AMBY is a neologism for “Adaptive Mobility”. The two vision vehicles BMW i Vision AMBY and BMW Motorrad Vision AMBY are intended to represent the basic idea of urban two-wheeled mobility in two different ways. The drive system allows up to 25 km/h for use on cycle paths, up to 45 km/h on inner-city roads and up to 60 km/h top speed on multi-lane roads and outside built-up areas – whereby the legal regulations of the respective country must be taken into account for the higher speeds. While the BMW i Vision AMBY, a high-speed pedelec, requires constant pedalling to receive assistance from the electric drive, the BMW Motorrad Vision AMBY accelerates using the throttle and, as is typical for a motorbike, has footrests instead of pedals.
The operating modes are managed via a smartphone app that connects to the respective two-wheeled vehicle. The rider can select the driving levels manually. The app can restrict or enable these driving levels via a geofencing function depending on the type of road and the location of the bike. The same applies to the maximum speed. This geofencing function uses data from the map service provider HERE: the app also stores the rider and insurance data and thus takes over the function of the key. The insurance number plate, which is required and prescribed depending on the driving level, is shown on an e-ink display.
The fact that a car manufacturer was involved in the development of the two-wheeler can also be seen in the optionally available driver assistance systems. These include ABS optimised for two-wheelers, a high beam and brake light assistant and daytime running lights. There is even a distance radar with a range of 140 metres to warn the bike user of vehicles approaching from behind.
The positioning as a hybrid between pedelec and motorbike is also to be reflected in the design. The frame structure is larger than that of a simple pedelec, the space between the profiles offers storage space for a backpack or laptop bag. The visually striking battery has a capacity of 2000 Wh and allows a range of up to 300 km, depending on the riding mode. It can be charged in three hours via fast-charging electronics. The drive on the iVision AMBY is designed as a pedelec, which means it only kicks into action when the rider is also pedalling.
“Seemingly fixed categories are breaking down everywhere. In the future, classifications such as ‘car’, ‘bicycle’ and ‘motorbike’ should not determine what we think, develop and offer,” explains Werner Haumayr, Head of BMW Group Design Concept. “This paradigm shift gives us the opportunity to align products with people’s lifestyles.”
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BMW plans Adaptive Cruise Control for motorbikes
BMW explores the limits of electric drives
Hybrid drive unchains bicycle designs
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