A group of engineering students working out of the Indian Institute of Technology have developed so-called i-Bike technology that can make it possible for users to use a smartphone app to summon a bicycle that can then navigate to their side.
The bike itself is powered by a 24-volt battery that keeps the bike going when it's in its autonomous mode, and it's also fitted with automatic brakes for the sake of safety. In autonomous mode, the i-Bike can attain a top speed of 25 km/h that ensures that users aren't kept waiting for too long.
Ultimately, this i-Bike technology should fit in well with smart cities of the future that will be increasingly important in countries like India that have several, heavily populated urban centers.
What's Driving This Trend
- Autonomous Bicycles
- The development of autonomous bicycles that can be summoned through smartphone apps opens up opportunities for on-demand transportation services without human riders.
- Smart City Transportation
- The i-Bike technology aligns with the growing trend of smart cities and presents the potential for efficient and sustainable transportation solutions in urban areas.
- Battery-powered Vehicles
- The use of a 24-volt battery to power the i-Bike showcases the increasing trend of battery-powered vehicles, providing a clean and eco-friendly transportation alternative.
Who This Affects Most
- Ride-sharing
- This autonomous bike technology could disrupt the ride-sharing industry by eliminating the need for human drivers and offering a more cost-effective and efficient transportation option.
- Smart Mobility
- The development of autonomous app-summoned bicycles supports the smart mobility industry, enabling easier and automated transportation in smart cities.
- Electric Vehicle Manufacturing
- The integration of battery-powered technology in the i-Bike presents an opportunity for electric vehicle manufacturers to expand their product offerings to include autonomous bicycles.
