Lexus has created the Lexus Hybrid Bicycle, a design concept the captures the fundamental engineering and design values of the brand, but with two wheels rather than four.
In every aspect this is Lexus, from the L-finesse design language of the engaging and elegant frame, to the application of hybrid power, an electric eight-speed transmission and lightweight carbon fiber construction.
Lexus has pioneered high performance, low emissions and optimum fuel efficiency with its full hybrid Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain technology. The Hybrid Bicycle adopts similar principles, with the pedal power of the rider boosted by assistance to the front wheel from a 240W electric motor, via a 25.9V Lithium-ion battery, with a choice of Eco or Power modes. And, as with Lexus Hybrid Drive, there is an energy regeneration function that helps recharge the battery by capturing kinetic energy generated under braking.
The Lexus Hybrid Bicycle has all-wheel drive, by means of a belt system. It is equipped with an electric eight-speed Shimano internal gear system, which references the sophisticated eight-speed shift-by-wire automatic transmission of Lexus’s LS 600h limousine. The carbon fibre construction shares the same light-but-strong composite materials technology that was used on Valentino Rossi’s MotoGP-winning motorcycle.
There are no current plans for the Lexus Hybrid Bicycle to become a production model.
Lexus Hybrid Bicycle Concept specifications
| BICYCLE | Length (mm) | 1,598 |
| Width (mm) | 425 | |
| Seat height (mm) | 900 | |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 1,080 | |
| Tyresize | 20 x 1 3/8 | |
| Weight (kg) | 17 | |
| ELECTRICAL PARTS | Motor output (W) | 240 |
| Batterytype | Lithium-ion | |
| Batteryvoltage | 25.9V/4.0Ah | |
| Charge time | Approx. 2hrs | |
| DRIVE PARTS | Gear system | Shimano 8-speed internal gear |
| Shift lever | Shimano dual control | |
| Drive train | Belt drive |
