The age of electric bikes is on the brink of a shift, thanks to the groundbreaking innovation of a French manufacturer that has turned its focus to supercapacitors. In Orléans, Loiret, the PI-POP emerges as the world’s first bike without batteries or the need for recharging. This game-changing technology stands on the cusp of revolutionizing the biking landscape.
The burning question arises: How can a bike be electric without batteries or a charging mechanism? The answer lies in the bike being powered by supercapacitors. After seven years of contemplation, research, and development, this eco-friendly concept has come to life. The Orléans-based company humorously refers to this as “the world’s first electric-assist bike that needs… just you!”
During pedaling, energy is generated and stored in the supercapacitor, enabling a rapid recharge of the system. This stored energy can be used for tasks like climbing hills. With the PI-POP electric bike, there’s no need to plug in for recharging; your pedaling recharges it.
This innovative method is also greener than traditional electric bikes since the supercapacitor is made from easier-to-recycle materials like carbon, aluminum, cellulose, and polymers. Additionally, the lifespan of the supercapacitor is estimated to be 10 to 15 years, longer than the 3 to 5 years of a standard battery. However, opting for a greener electric bike like the PI-POP comes with a price tag of 2,450 euros.
This breakthrough signifies a move towards more sustainable and environmentally-friendly personal transportation options. It challenges the status quo and pushes