What's the news?
You're looking at the Skoda Klement, revealed at the Geneva Motor Show as the Czech brand's idea of the 'future of micromobility in cities'. Or, to you and us, it's an electric bicycle.
The Klement, named after one of the founders of Skoda, has an integrated 4kW (5.4hp) electric motor in its rear wheel hub, allowing it a top speed of 45km/h. Control comes via the pivoting pedals, which manage the throttle and brakes, the latter of which comes in the form of a hydraulic stopper at the front that's equipped with ABS, no less, and a regenerative brake at the back. LED lights incorporated into the frame of the Klement ensure it is being ridden safely at all times of the day and night, while the symbolism of the bicycle should not be ignored - 124 years ago, Skoda began by making the two-wheeled transportation devices, after all.
Further details on the Klement include the fact it has an aluminium frame, while the suspension for each wheel is courtesy of single-sided swing arms. There are no levers or cables visible on the Skoda concept, while the marque tries to assert differentiation from any other electric bike as a result of those fixed pedals down below; normally, on other e-bikes, there's a bottom bracket instead. Riders pivot the pedals forward to go and backward to... well, you can probably work out the rest yourself.
With a pair of lithium-ion batteries featuring 52 cells each, the Klement has a capacity of 1,250Wh (1.25kWh), which means it can go up to 62km on a charge. The whole bike weighs just 25kg, too.
Anything else?
Guido Haak, head of Product Management at Skoda, said: "Micromobility is becoming increasingly important in cities. By presenting the Klement at the Geneva Motor Show, we are showcasing our vision for the future of micromobility: sustainable, innovative, electric and with a pure, modern design. The Klement is a state-of-the-art, dynamic and easy-to-use vehicle, and allows the Skoda brand to further appeal to a younger target group with a heightened sense of environmental awareness. The concept is perfectly aligned with our customers and our e-Mobility Strategy. We are therefore assessing whether, and how, this exciting, new mobility concept can be added to our portfolio in the future."