Hopper - e-bike with cabin on three wheels

The three-wheeled e-bike from Augsburg-based start-up Hopper Mobility claims to be an alternative to the car. The cargo version offers 220 litres of space behind the driver's seat for tools and a little material. In the version intended for passenger transport, two adults can sit behind each other. There is also supposed to be a trailer hitch so that larger objects can be transported on a trailer. However, the prototype we saw at the micromobility expo in Hanover in mid-May did not yet have it fitted.
The hopper is only 2 m long and 88 cm wide. In the 1.45 m high vehicle, you sit as upright as in a car. It has nothing to do with a recumbent bike, more with a car. Since it is a pedelec that is supported by an electric motor with a rated continuous output of 250 watts, it can also be used on cycle paths. The maximum speed is also 25 km/h here. The vehicle, which weighs about 120 kg, has electric starting assistance up to 6 km/h. According to the manufacturer, the power from the two 1000 Wh batteries weighing about 8 kg will last up to 100 km. If only one battery is used, the range is halved accordingly. The removable batteries can be charged at a standard Schuko socket.
The "Hopper" runs on three wheels. The 90-degree steering of the rear axle is unusual. You drive the "Hopper" like a forklift truck. This may be quite unusual for some people at first, but it allows the vehicle a sensational turning circle of only 2 metres. This makes it possible to cope with difficult driving situations, especially in the city, and to steer the "Hopper" into even the smallest parking space.
The electric current is generated by muscle power from a generator when pedalling. In the future, additional power will come from a photovoltaic system on the roof. According to the manufacturer, the solar panel will enable the car to travel up to 5 km every hour with full sunlight. However, the solar system was not yet installed on the prototype. From the end of next year, the "Hopper" is expected to go into series production at a price starting at 7300 euros.
Further information online at hopper-mobility.com