Panasonic introduces lithium ion-powered bicycle
On this site Panasonic has mostly received attention for their relationship with Toyota as a supplier of batteries. In particular, we've discussed their difficulties with lithium ion batteries. While the company may be struggling to create automotive-class lithium ion batteries, they are moving forward with batteries for smaller vehicles. Panasonic has been producing electric bicycles for several years including several folding models. Their latest entry is the Titanium Flat Road EB. This racing bike is equipped with a lithium ion battery that has enough capacity to move the bike about six miles. The bike is equipped with Panasonic's Smart Lithium-Ion Integrated Management System (SLIM) that can provide information to the rider about the battery state of charge and range. So far their is no information on price or availability.
[Source: Akhibara News]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Tony Belding 9:17AM (2/25/2008)
How do these compare with the Schwinn electric bikes? Can we get an AutoblogGreen head-to-head test? :)
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ruby 10:38AM (2/25/2008)
Why don't they try regenerative braking- that would also be good for downhills.
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GoodCheer 10:58AM (2/25/2008)
I don't think you can really call it a "racing bike", since there are no bike races that permit power assist. It's not even a racing bike design; flat-bar street bikes are referred to 'hybrid' or sometimes 'crossover' bikes.
I suppose for this site (and with multiple motive sources) the term hybrid is the most suitable.
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Amber78 11:04AM (2/25/2008)
Cool site - in my nature
Has anyone seen this site:
www.condenet.com/promo/inmynature
It’s pretty interesting to me that Toyota (along with Diane Keaton…who knew?) is taking steps to be green. Also, they’re sponsoring this season of PBS’ Nature series—there’s a schedule on the site.
Just wanted to share :)
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Chris M 10:44PM (2/26/2008)
Where's the battery? Did they do what I think they did, and hide it in the tubular frame? If so, that's kinda cool.
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