French startup Pi-Pop introduces an electric bicycle equipped with supercapacitors instead of lithium batteries, offering efficient and environmentally friendly rides.
Pi-Pop's electric bicycle. Photo: Pi-Pop
Supercapacitors are a type of capacitor that can store large amounts of energy, often 10 to 100 times more than conventional capacitors, and are favored for their fast charging capabilities. Supercapacitors are not an entirely new technology. Experts first produced supercapacitors in the late 1970s. Since then, they have been used in photovoltaic systems, digital cameras, electric and hybrid vehicles to improve efficiency. Integrating supercapacitors into electric bicycles is a logical step towards "green transportation".
Unlike conventional electric bikes that run on lithium batteries, the Pi-Pop utilizes the power of supercapacitors to store and release electricity. This technology focuses on energy regeneration, recharging the battery when the rider pedals, goes downhill, or brakes, Interesting Engineering reported on September 22.
While lithium powers electric vehicles, its extraction presents numerous ecological challenges, from pollution to biodiversity loss. Furthermore, demand for lithium is projected to far exceed supply by 2030. Pi-Pop's electric bicycles offer an alternative to lithium-dependent vehicles, addressing these concerns.
Unlike lithium batteries, supercapacitors are made from common materials such as aluminum, carbon, cellulose, and polymers, which are easily recyclable. Supercapacitors have a significantly higher number of charge cycles than lithium batteries, ensuring a longer lifespan and reducing waste.
Pi-Pop's electric bicycles are equipped with an advanced energy storage system based on supercapacitors with a lifespan of up to 10-15 years, significantly exceeding the typical lifespan of lithium batteries (around 5-6 years). These supercapacitors are not only environmentally friendly but also fully recyclable.
This electric bicycle features an attractive white design and weighs approximately 21.7 kg, making it suitable for riders between 155 and 185 cm tall. Designed for both men and women, the bike provides continuous electric assistance, allowing riders to reach speeds of up to 25 km/h using its 250 W motor. This non-lithium model is expected to cost $2,610.
Pi-Pop is currently producing its electric bicycle model in Orléans, France, at a rate of 100 units per month. The company hopes to be able to produce 1,000 units per month by 2024.
Thu Thao (According to Interesting Engineering )
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