Thursday, March 27, 2014

Half the Bike, Double the Fun

Halfbike brings you a completely new experience. It’s a vehicle that combines running and cycling, which turns out to be remarkably exciting and fun for getting around the city. A bicycle revised both in terms of size and functionality, a new kind of personal vehicle designed with rider experience in mind. Halfbike is light, compact and simple. You stand upright and turn simply by leaning your body. The ride is so smooth it almost feels like you’re gliding! See it in action —>

Designer: Kolelinia

Thursday, March 20, 2014

Kolelinia Halfbike

Transportation start-up Kolelinia has created a vehicle that uses pedal power to transport riders around town while standing up, like a low-tech version of a Segway (+ movie).

Halfbike pedal-powered scooter resembles a low-tech Segway

The Halfbike by Kolelinia features pedals like a bicycle that the user balances on while holding on to a single waist-height handlebar in an upright stance.

The pedals are connected to a large front wheel by a chain that drives the Halfbike forward, while two smaller wheels at the back provide a stable base and a brake on the joystick-like handlebar is used to slow down.

Halfbike pedal-powered scooter resembles a low-tech Segway

The motion of pedalling results in an experience similar to low-impact running, while the upright riding position provides good visibility.

"Its combination of cycling and smooth assisted running provides a remarkably quick and fun way of urban travel," said the designers. "Its innovative rider position, at the same time both upright and higher, gives you a new perspective on the city."

Halfbike pedal-powered scooter resembles a low-tech Segway

The user steers the Halfbike by leaning to either side, which shifts the balance between the front wheel and the rear axle.

Kolelinia said the Halfbike was designed for commuting short distances and provides a compact alternative to a bicycle that is easy to carry or store.

Halfbike pedal-powered scooter resembles a low-tech Segway

"It is compact enough for an elevator, light enough to carry on stairs, and fits into spaces too small for a normal bicycle," the designers explained.

A handlebar made from plywood is fixed to the laser-cut aluminium frame, which is currently white but will eventually be available in six additional colours.

Halfbike pedal-powered scooter resembles a low-tech Segway

"We see the Halfbike as an alternative for people tired of sitting in traffic jams, which at the same time improves their experience of travel," the designers added.

Prices for the Halfbike start from $799. Kolelinia founders Martin Angelov and Mihail Klenov have launched a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds for the first batch of production.

Monday, March 3, 2014

Volkswagon Uniblock Modular Concept Car

The Uniblock automated vehicle is actually a modular 3-cars-in-1! The clever design splits up to tackle different scenarios. In single car mode, it’s beneficial for short distances or using narrow roads. Expanded to two or three, Uniblock becomes the perfect caravan for making long journeys on the wider open road. Best of all, it will drive itself so you can sit back and relax inside the comfy reconfigurable cabin!

Designer: Jungu Lee