A folding electric bike that fits in a bag? Impossible
If there's one area of technology that seems permanently mired in the '70s, it's that of the fold-up bicycle. In fact, the last innovation we can recall is Sir Clive Sinclair's A-Bike from 2006, but it's still big enough to be difficult to carry around. That's what inspired the folks at Impossible Technology to try and re-invent the commuter bicycle for the modern era. Rather than using straight lines, the Impossible Bike is based on two circles, from which wheels pull down and the seat and handle extends out from the top. The hard plastic carrying case which protects the unit when folded down - small enough to fit into a backpack - pulls double duty as the seat.
There's no pedals on the Impossible, instead, a brushless electric motor (currently in development) will propel you through the streets. Equipped with 10 2,900mAh batteries, the current model apparently has a range limit of 15.6 miles, unless you kick it into turbo mode, at which point it'll rocket up to 12.4mph for 45 minutes. Unfortunately, at least this one Engadget editor will have to take a pass on backing the device, since it comes with an upper weight limit of 180 pounds, although we're not sure if the quirky carbon-fiber frame would even be able to sustain someone of that girth. Since the vehicle doesn't come with suspension, we'd imagine it'd also be a bit of a pain if you don't live in a city where the pavements are perfectly smooth. Still, it's a curious piece of hardware, and we can't wait to see it in the flesh when it arrives in August of next year - if you're interested in taking the risk and backing it now, it'll set you back $530 unless you can bag an early-bird deal.
