In the world of electric vehicles there is an outsider who is making waves. Twike5 It's not just another hybrid vehicle: it's a shocker. A benevolent pest on three wheels that challenges our perceptions of what it means to move sustainably. And it's back to stay. From where? The exact question is: since when.
The return of an innovative concept
The Twike5, presented for the first time even 5 years ago, in 2019, at the Genève Motor Show, is making its grand return to the sustainable mobility scene. Since then, a lot of water has passed under the bridge: and in fact this hybrid vehicle, which combines the muscular energy of the driver and passenger with an electric motor, has undergone considerable evolution since its debut.
Now the technical specifications are impressive. Offers two battery options: 18 kWh o 36 kWh, with an autonomy up to 500 km for the latter. The declared maximum speed is 190 km/h, thanks to a three-phase double-winding synchronized motor. The power? It stands at 45 kW, with peaks of up to 70 kW. Data that places the Twike5 in a category of its own in the panorama of hybrid vehicles.
A unique propulsion concept
The most distinctive feature of the Twike5 remains its propulsion system. The hybrid vehicle does not require pedaling to move forward, but to recharge the battery. This innovative approach creates a unique driving experience, with the user actively contributing to the energy efficiency of the vehicle.
Visually, as mentioned, Twike5 has made giant strides compared to the 2019 prototype. From a "large tricycle" it has evolved into a vehicle with a futuristic and aerodynamic design.
It is now classified in the European L5e category as a “motorized tricycle”, a recognition of its hybrid nature between bicycle and car.
Twike5 hybrid vehicle, things I don't like
Before we talk about anything else, let me tell you what's wrong at all. The Twike5 is up for pre-order but will have a high price tag. Very high, between €39.900 and €49.900. I find it an insult to the market. For that amount I am willing to bet that the number of copies sold can be counted on the tips of two hands. The very idea of a hybrid muscular-electric vehicle is difficult for the masses to digest: if we also include the need for adaptations in urban infrastructures, it is difficult for it to catch on.
It's a shame, because in principle it would be an excellent idea for mobility and health. What's more: it could inspire a whole new class of vehicles.
A pioneer who, I fear, will remain far from the shore
5 years after his first appearance, Twike5 is not yet ready for success (in my opinion, then tell me yours too). To be honest, there is a small victory: making all of us rethink what it means to move sustainably in the XNUMXst century. The story, for now, stops here.
Metaphorically speaking, in an era in which the urgency of sustainable solutions is becoming more and more pressing, to move forward we must be ready to pedal a little harder than this.
