Here's something interesting, in the folding/non-folding e-bike department. This is the Mando Footloose, released in a (cheaper) non-folding model called the Footloose IM. Why interesting? Basically because it's powered with a fairly unique, chainless pedal drive:
Series Hybrid System... This first-of-its-kind system powers the wheels with a built-in motor that does not require mechanical chains that connect the wheels and pedals.
What's that you say? Pedals, no chain?
Simply, the pedals are working on a little alternator that charges the battery pack (that's mounted inside the "body"). The battery then powers an in-wheel hub motor, and away you go.
Pedal-powered charging
Specs? Of course, so glad you asked:
Specifications
Drive System: Series Hybrid System
TOP SPEED: 25 km/h (16mi/h)
RANGE: Throttle : max. 30km(18mile) Pedaling : max. 45km(28mile)
MOTOR: Dual-Winding Motor, 250W
BATTERY: Lithium-ion battery, 36V, 8.2Ah
WHEEL:20″, 5-Blades
WEIGHT: 21.7kg (47.8lb)
DISPLAY: Detachable 2.4” Color LCD display
FORK: Single fork (Carbon Fibre)
FRAME: Aluminum
Here's a video, in all Chinese, but the universal language of "boy this is fun stuff" comes through in shining colors... with our loose translation of the caption:
"I AM Foot Loose Mando car ride Event 5
Foot Loose gentleman was going in that cafe :)
Although the first half of 2015 test-drive event exit"
You can read more on the Gizmag story from whence we heard of this, and see their webpage here.
