City slickers* could soon have a new way to get about town, thanks to an electric moped* you can charge at home. Called the Motochimp, the electric mini moto which is fully charged by a house plug in less than one hour could revolutionize the inner city commute*. The diminutive* bike is an emission-free ride capable of a top speed of more than 32 kph, making it ideal for the ride to work on rush hour roads. The company behind the design claims it is eco-friendly, fashionable and the antidote* to traditional urban transport. To charge the bike, simply plug the adaptor into any conventional* socket. Within one hour, the bike will have a range of almost 60km. The Motochimp has been designed by Singaporean electrics experts, Vanda Electrics, and was launched at the Shenzhen International Industrial Design Fair. The Motochimp, which is one-meter long, has an aluminium* frame and is powered by an electric rear hub motor. Energy is stored by a lithium-ion* battery with the power plug hidden under the rider’s seat. Riders kickstart their hogs using a contactless* RFID* key, with a master key which can be used to code five additional keys. It will cost US$1,600.(SD-Agencies) |