This Electric Bike Rides Itself Thanks To a Software That Controls All Its Components

One of the creators in the workshop in which they have built the first demonstration prototype of the electric bike Weel EV-B.La Weel EV-B is probably the smartest electric bike ever built, or so say its manufacturers: David Hansen, Justin Corbett and Dylan Meehan, three American visionaries inspired by the design and technology of the Tesla Cybertruck. The concept of autonomous vehicle that now evolves in electric cars is transferred here to a bike whose software controls each and every one of its components to allow it to drive alone.

Nowadays it is not strange that vehicles are endowed with a certain intelligence. However, the Weel EV-B takes that concept to a whole new level. Beyond its frame of thick matte gray aluminum beams inspired by the Cybertruck, what makes this vehicle more special is the integration of hardware and software to make it partially autonomous.

David Hansen, Justin Corbett and Dylan Meehan wanted to build a “cool” electric vehicle that looked like a bicycle, defined by software and could drive itself. The result is a pre-production prototype that although not yet available for purchase if it can be admired thanks to the video that appears below.

The software that governs the EV-B can be controlled through a dedicated application that is installed on the mobile phone. In fact, in this case the technical specifications of its engines are “unimportant”, since it can be configured to comply with the regulations of each region, so that, for example, in Europe a power limit of 250 W and a maximum assistance speed of 25 km / h would be established.

But in addition to that, from that application it is possible to control the brakes, the pedals, the sensitivity of the accelerator (to cancel it if it is not legal) and many more options. Although the maximum speed of the vehicle is limited by the software, it can potentially reach up to 80 km/h.

From what can be seen in the images, the mechanical architecture of the Weel EV-B is based on two electric motors, one in each hub of its wheels. It is powered by a battery integrated in the frame, pedals attached to a regeneration system, cables and sensors that replace components such as the chain, sprockets and gears and hydraulic brake systems.

On the front it integrates a dashcam capable of offering a 360-degree vision. It also includes several radars and a LiDAR with which it can anticipate frontal collisions, initiating, for example, the braking maneuver, to say just some of its most interesting features. The part of the software dedicated to artificial intelligence learns from the riding style of each cyclist and adjusts the parameters of assistance, braking and handling over time.

The application allows the adjustment of a large number of parameters and settings. The ‘Weel Copilot’ function is one of the most amazing functions of this electric bike because it can keep the bike balanced even when the hands are removed from the handlebars. Another notable function is the ‘Elevator Mode’ that helps to climb some stairs, for example.

While the creators have not yet revealed most of the specifications of the electric bike when it comes to the technical characteristics of its motors and battery, they do mention that they are fully customizable. Consequently, the power and kilometers during which you can assist the pedaling will depend on what each buyer chooses. If it has been advanced that the battery will be equipped with a fast charging system capable of adding 8 kilometers for every 15 minutes of connection to the network

Candela C-8 Boat Already Has an Official Presentation Date

Electric sailing enthusiasts are in luck, since from Candela, the new brand specialized in electric boats, has just made public the official date of presentation and subsequent commercialization of the C-8, its latest all-electric hydrofoil model and that they already call “the most anticipated electric boat in the world” due, particularly, to its attractive design, General specifications and capabilities.

In recent months there have been many electric boats that have been presented in society, however, there is one that has known how to shine among all of them. This would be the Candela C-8, which was presented in society as a mere digital design last August. Months later, the model began its tests in real environments and just three months ago we could see how a prototype of the Candela C-8 developed in its “inaugural navigation”. Now, the advances on this electric boat have borne fruit and from the company they assure that it is ready to be presented in society definitively, as well as to start marketing and selling to its potential customers.

Next week, specifically from May 28 to June 5, one of the largest events in the nautical sector, the so-called Salone Nautico Venezia, will be held on the Italian city of Venice, which will have a total of 9 days of exhibitions, conferences, regattas and tests of the different boats on the waters around the historic city. Taking advantage of this event of enormous international significance, from Candela they have decided that this will be the ideal environment to publicly meet the “most anticipated electric boat in the world”, as the Swedish manufacturer calls it.

This company will be present at this event during all the days of celebration of the Salone Nautico Venezia, in which it will show the details of the Candela C-8 to all those interested who come there. During the event, the Swedish firm will open the order book. They can be booked by giving a deposit (of 1,000 euros refundable) or, directly, contributing the entire amount that it will cost to get an electric Candela C-8, which is estimated to start at $ 330,000. Presumably, the first deliveries to final customers will be a complete reality throughout the second half of next year 2023.

Candela C-8: An Upgrade to C-7

This will be the second model launched by the company, after the Candela C-7, which was presented in 2019 and incorporated succulent solutions for its electrical mechanics. However, the C-8 is positioned one step above the previous model, since its hull is somewhat larger, reaching 8.5 meters in length and 2.5 meters in width. It hosts important technological advances in maritime electrification, such as its electric hydrofoil system, which is capable of reducing friction with water by up to 80%, which ensures greater electric autonomy and a higher top speed; but also its latest model of electric motor outboard, which is postulated as the most efficient in the world.

From the company they claim that their specifications will make this the closest thing there is to driving an electric supercar through the water thanks to its instant power delivery. The maximum speed will be about 24 knots (44 km/h) and its autonomy will be around 100 kilometers at cruising speed. Its hull has been developed in carbon fiber and its inspiration was that of airplanes. The Candela C-8 can present an image of a boat without a roof or, conversely, attach one to it for the days when it rains or to use it as a mere protection of its cabin.

X-Yachts Presents the First Electric Sailboat That Recharges Batteries While Sailing

The shipbuilding industry is making significant progress in achieving a much more efficient and environmentally friendly sector. Part of this route is inexorably destined to the use of technologies such as the hydrogen fuel cell for specific cases of large transoceanic vessels. However, boats intended for recreational use are finding a very important gap in electrification through batteries and that is having a more than remarkable reception among the public and their potential customers. Now, X-Yachts has completed the development of its first electric sailboat.

X-Yachts is a company of Danish origin that in all its years of life as a company (around 40) has been dedicated to the manufacture and development of boats, especially luxury and handcrafted construction on request. Now, the shipping company itself has confirmed the launch of its first all-electric yacht. This is the X49E and has a total length of 15 meters; aesthetically it is based on the X49 already produced by X-Yachts, although for this case its diesel mechanics have been completely replaced in favor of a fully electric one.

The X-Yachts X49E is presented as one of the most elegant sailboats on the market, something that combines directly with its orientation of sustainability and efficiency; Of course, during navigation, the silence on the part of its electric motor will be practically negligible.

From the company itself they mention that there was already, for its part, the intention to launch a luxury electric yacht for several years, however, they have decided to wait the right time so that the technology and knowledge about the electrification of ships had matured properly. Finally, this moment has arrived and from the board of X-Yachts they are completely excited to be able to officially present this electric boat.

The X49E has two electric motors manufactured by Oceanvolt and have an individual power of 10 kW. These, in turn, are powered by a bank of lithium-ion batteries with a total capacity of 28.8 kWh and a DC generator with a capacity of 11 kW. While its battery equipment is not especially large, from the brand they specify that with all the conditions in favor, the maximum autonomy will be around 90 kilometers, although, of course, this will always depend on the marine conditions and the speed at which the yacht sails.

However, and as a support to this electrical mechanics, the X49E comes equipped with an additional system that allows it to generate 3.5 kW of energy when sailing at 15 km / h. This will mean ecological electricity and totally free for its users, something that translates directly into the ability to regenerate 100% of the charge of your battery equipment after 8 hours of navigation. Additionally, the hull of the ship is equipped with a series of solar panels that will produce extra energy to operate plugs, lights, navigation systems or appliances, among others.

As an alternative to this, X-Yachts also markets a variant with an additional diesel engine, in order to act as a hybrid boat especially for those interested in making long trips on board without worrying about the electric range of the same.

The interior of the X49E can accommodate up to 6 passengers. The company specifies that the materials of each and every one of the panels that cover the cabins are of the highest quality and, additionally, have a list of materials and colors for your interested party to choose. Inside it has a distribution of two bathrooms, kitchen and living room with two sofas; At the stern it has a small space to house an inflatable boat of up to 2.5 meters. From the company they have not specified the specific data of their price, although this will always depend on the particular requests of their interested parties.

Electic Cars: Why Should You Buy One?

The emergence of the electric car in the market has arrived with force and the forecasts about their future are quite good.

Despite the doubts that it initially generated, given its multiple benefits, more and more drivers are deciding to opt for sustainable mobility. If in your case you are still not completely convinced, from here we are going to show you some key elements that will make you think seriously about your purchase.

Why buy an electric car?

One of the main advantages of buying an electric car is its absence of emissions, although we have to tell you that it is not the only one. Some of the reasons why users decide to bet on the change have to do with tax benefits, saving money, free parking and more.

From here we want to explain the five advantages linked to the electric car so that you get an approximate idea of its full potential.

1- Less pollution

Indeed, electric cars that run on batteries do not emit any polluting gases (nitrogen oxide or CO2) during the time they circulate on the road. For this reason, the General Directorate of Traffic has created the Zero Emissions label with which it intends to distinguish them from combustion cars.

The gases expelled into the atmosphere by conventional vehicles, the result of the combustion of energy, are an evil for the environment and our health. By not emitting these chemical compounds, electric cars do not need an exhaust pipe, something that significantly reduces noise pollution.

2- Price of the recharge

The difference in cost per kilometer between combustion and electric vehicles is considerable, becoming one of the main advantages that drivers contemplate when replacing their old car.

As an interesting detail, if an efficient conventional vehicle spends about € 6 per 100 kilometers, an electric car will barely spend € 1.5. This is because the price of fuel is higher compared to the price of electricity.

To the price of recharging we must also add maintenance, clearly lower in the case of electric cars. Keep in mind that they have simpler mechanics that do not require as many parts as in the case of combustion vehicles. This means that it tends to break down less frequently and that it does not need as many spare parts.

3- Zero restrictions to enter large cities

Pollution damages air quality and, therefore, the health of the inhabitants. That is why many cities have created a series of protocols to pollute less once the measurements exceed the maximum allowed.

One of the advantages of the electric car is its permissibility when it comes to circulating freely in the city without having to face any type of environmental restriction. In this way, there are specific areas through which combustion cars cannot circulate.

In the case of Madrid, for example, the area to carry it out is Madrid Central, an area of almost 5 square kilometers that includes popular neighborhoods such as Sol, Embajadores, Cortes, Universidad or Justicia. Although the downtown district may seem too large an area to make this type of restrictions, the truth is that it is very small if we take into account other European cities such as London.

In this way, only vehicles that carry a zero emissions badge can enter this area of the capital in an unlimited way, while vehicles with an ECO sticker will be able to access it for two hours.

In addition to the increase in charging stations that continues to grow and alternatives such as the portable electric car charger, which you can use wherever you go, we must highlight the free parking in SER zones (regulated parking) and exemptions in municipal taxes, two more attractions of the electric car.

4- An electric car offers smooth driving and superb performance

Compared to conventional vehicles, electric cars have a fairly smooth and quiet driving. When accelerating they offer an immediate response, so they respond better in their start-up with respect to those of combustion.

As we have mentioned before, they do not need as many parts as conventional ones, such as gearbox or transmission tunnel, hence their interior space is wider. The battery system is quite large, but being at the bottom, it does not affect the trunk and internal capacity.

5- Aid and tax advantages

The Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge decided to create the Moves Plan in 2019. It is a plan endowed with aid to encourage the purchase of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles with subsidies from the State. It also grants aid to install new charging points or wallbox at home.

One of the most important tax advantages with which users can benefit is the Registration Taxhaving a zero emission level, they are exempt from paying it.

We hope that this post has helped you to know the advantages of an electric car in your day to day and has convinced you to replace your current vehicle with an electric one and thus move towards sustainability.

Volkswagen CEO Announces In Which Year the Brand Will Only Sell 100% Electric Cars

That Volkswagen is very focused on its electric path is no secret, but until now the German manufacturer had not given an exact date for its definitive step to electric mobility in Europe; Electro-Mobil Blog & More gives you more details in this articles.

Volkswagen has in the ID range a bet on the future. Wolfsburg have put all their eggs in the same basket and there is no turning back. Although the change they propose will be gradual, the Germans already have a specific date to make the definitive leap to electric mobility. Thomas Schaefer, recently appointed chief operating officer of Volkswagen, has confirmed that in 2033 they will only sell electric cars in Europe, two years before the official margin proposed by the European Union itself.

The truth is that no one can be taken by surprise by such an announcement since the enormous effort that Volkswagen has been making in recent years was aimed at a single purpose. Since the Volkswagen ID.3 hit the market in 2020, the brand has been directing its gaze to a segment that is beginning to dominate. Electric vehicles such as the Volkswagen ID.4 are gaining more and more followers around the world, and in Europe it has become the most popular model in the family, although within a few years everything can change.

And it will do so because the range will grow. The ID family will expand and do so quickly. Schaefer himself has warned that there will be 10 new models on the market before 2026. The access model will be the expected Volkswagen ID.1, which we have already talked about repeatedly. It has always been said that it would be below the psychological barrier of 20,000 euros, but the new figure, inflation through, will be 25,000 euros. That will be the starting point of the most affordable electric model in the ranks of Volkswagen, a high cost if we take into account that we are talking about a B segment.

Obviously it will not be the only one to present itself since after its launch there will be the presentation of a crossover of such size, the Volkswagen ID.2. The goal is to rival models such as the Peugeot e-2008 or the Opel Mokka-e. In this case, no minimum sale price has been specified, although the most logical thing is to think of figures of around 28,000 euros. Many plans on the table and many planned launches, not only in the EV range, but also in the ICE models that will correspondingly adapt to electrified formats until their complete disappearance.

The IDs will take over the range, and like the thermal cars will undergo updates and renewals. The first to undergo a facelift will be the ID.3. The compact will live next year a first renovation that in the words of the director of operations: “will make a significant and remarkable leap in terms of quality, materials and stability of the system”. Points where the ID.3 has to improve significantly, although nothing has been mentioned about an increase in autonomy or performance indices.

The other big headline from Thomas Schaefer’s interview with Reuters indicates that Volkswagen will shift its production focus from concentrating on a single model per factory to a platform thinking. That means that the Volkswagen Group will focus production on platforms and not models. For example, the ID.4 and the Škoda Enyaq, twin models that are manufactured in two different plants. This is a cost issue with which it is intended to achieve a profit margin of 8 percent by 2025.