FastCompany RSS

VW's First Ever Two-Wheeler Fits in Your Spare Tire Compartment

BY Ariel SchwartzWed Apr 28, 2010

Volkswagen bike

Did you know that Volkswagen's "focus on mobility" extends beyond cars to two-wheelers? Neither did we until VW research and development chief Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg said so at this week's Auto China 2010 show. Hackenberg introduced the VW bik.e, a battery-powered two-wheeler that resembles a bicycle without the pedals.

According to Autobloggreen, the specs look pretty good: a 12.5 mile range (perfect for short trips around town, nothing more), a top speed of 12.5 mph, and most impressively, the bike can easily fold into a disc that fits in a car's spare tire compartment.

VW hasn't revealed when--or if--the concept bike will go on sale, but chances are good that it will be commercialized at some point soon. What do you think--would you ride around on such a tiny contraption? Video of the bike in action is below. Just skip past the part with the goofy undersea dancers.