An electric bicycle is just like a normal bicycle, but better: the battery and motor provide the rider with plenty of extra support to go anywhere, without the exhaustion. Hills, long distances, or hot weather are no longer big obstacles.
Apart from saving the rider energy, it also saves time and money, because with an e-bike you still have extra cash by the end of the month that would have otherwise been used for public transport, fuel and vehicle maintenance.
E-bikes can also be used for bicycle taxi. Riding an e-bike requires no special training or any licenses.
The bonus is electric bicycle batteries can be recharged, for free, by the sun. A simple solar recharge system can provides plenty of energy in all sunny regions to keep the electric bicycle moving.
The value chain can extend to charging in the form of a Solar Service Station made from modified shipping containers. The concept avails itself through photovoltaic and battery storage systems that are designed to support an entrepreneurial hub that fulfils the community’s electricity, mobility and other basic needs, without the use of fossil fuels.
In Windhoek, Namibia, SunCycles is making e-bikes powered by solar power, which are mobilizing small businesses in Namibia. Their e-bike’s are assisting game guards to patrol in Salambala Conservacy – Zambezi Region. E-bikes can also be used for bicycle taxi, delivery service or eco-tourism.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
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Are Suncycles available in SA