E-Bike and E-Bicycle: They’re Not Quite the Same
I’m sure you have heard a lot about this transition to electric vehicles. Brands like Tesla have
been at the forefront of promoting the use of electrically powered vehicles instead of your
traditional fuel-run automobiles. With governments and automobile companies scrambling to
keep up with the demand for this new technology, we often ignore the advancements made in
the 2-wheeler space. Even the shortest trip to Bandra would be incomplete without spotting a
food delivery agent zooming around on his e-bike. Over time we have gotten used to using
the words “bike” and “bicycle” interchangeably, which has had an effect on how we
understand these new electrical vehicles. So, what’s similar and what’s different?
E-Bicycles Still Have Pedals
Generally speaking, E-Bicycles are geared toward assisting their passenger pedalling over
longer distances. These bicycles are fitted with small motors, which provide an extra push
that can ease pedalling over longer distances or steeper inclines. E-Bikes, on the other hand,
are generally supported by batteries and are operated using a throttle, similar to the one you
see on your regular motorcycle. Although both electric vehicles are designed to make
commuting easier, e-bicycles require minimum human effort. While e-bicycles are an
excellent option for medium-range travel, e-bikes can be an excellent mode of commuting for
differently-abled members of society.
E-Bikes are Faster Than You Think
The average human being can cycle at around 20kmph if you don’t consider factors such as
fatigue over time. E-Bicycles and smaller motors don’t make the most significant difference
in speed but can provide a more consistent pace over time as they are geared toward
minimizing fatigue. However, E-Bikes can be much quicker than you would expect. While
you can’t expect to be cruising down the highway at 100kmph, many e-bikes can reach top
speeds up to 45kmph. Considering that the average speed of commute in the city is around
20kmph, E-Bikes can definitely keep up with the pace at which Mumbai moves.
They’re Good for You and the Environment
E-Bikes and E-Bicycles offer a fast and flexible method to get around your city. Whether you
own an EV or rent it from businesses, these 2-wheeled wonders provide a great solution to
solve first and last-mile connectivity issues. Since they do not use traditional fuel motors,
they’re often much quieter and contribute significantly towards improving air quality. They
use energy with an average rate of 100 to 150 watts compared to 15,000 or so for a car.
Energy conservation has become an integral component in developing sustainable transport
solutions.
Apart from their environmental benefits, E-Bicycles also improve fitness. E-Bicycles are
generally pedal-assisted and significantly reduce fatigue, but they require movement. This
exercise is always beneficial for you, both mentally and physically. These EVs also help
reduce expenses as most E-Bikes can easily last up to 60kms on a full charge. Being resistant
to regular price surges in fuel prices has become increasingly important in today’s political
environment.
You Don’t Need a License.
Most low-speed EVs today don’t require the driver to have a license. This allows younger
members and differently-abled members of society to commute independently. It is essential
to provide the “dependent” portion of our demographic with an equal opportunity to be
included in our idea of an urban environment. Senior citizens and women can benefit from
these vehicles as they are generally easy to handle and promote connectivity at much lower
rates than cab sharing applications.
While all E-Bicycles are a safe bet, E-Bikes can vary depending on the size of their motor.
Slower E-Bikes aren’t categorized as “motor vehicles,” negating the need for licenses and
registration. However, it’s important to note that electric two-wheelers that have a motor that
generates over 250 watts and has a top speed of around 25kmph require you to have a
driver’s license, as well as registration with the RTO.
~ Amartya Raj
Student of Emory University