The German company Schaeffler offers a new design of environmentally friendly bicycle-cargo transport intended for use in urban environments.
The Schaeffler Free Drive has pedals, but they act as a generator that produces electricity for the rear wheel’s electric motor. Mechanical components such as timing belts or gears are not needed in this case. Changing gears or changing operating modes is done using software.
The generator is designed in such a way that significantly less muscle power is required when pedaling than with classic chain drives, which is especially beneficial for delivery trips with heavier loads. Excess energy is stored in the battery and used for propulsion when needed. In total, the Free Drive provides 250 watts of drive power.
“With the chainless drive, completely new bicycle architectures and pedal configurations are possible, also for applications with three or four wheels, with or without a roof,” informs Jochen Schroeder, Head of Schaeffler’s Electromobility Division. Such a solution reduces maintenance costs, which is a big plus for cargo bike fleet operators, as their vehicles will spend more time on the road and less time in the repair shop.Riders will also appreciate that they no longer have to worry about oiling the chain and getting grease on their hands or clothing.
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