Podbike Frikar: the Norwegian-bodied electric bicycle

The Podbike is an original vehicle from Norway that bridges the gap between an electric assist bicycle and a small car, launched in Europe this spring 2022.

Are you hesitating between a bike but feeling vulnerable, and a car that is too expensive? A company probably has the solution for you, the Swedish Podbike, with its Frikar velomobile arriving in 2022.

The Scandinavian-style Velomobile

The bodywork features the look of a protective, aerodynamic bubble, inspired by automotive design. The Frikar rests on 4 wheels, with widened tracks, black passings, mirrors, manual windshield wipers, LED headlights, and rear lights including reversing lights. At 2.13 meters long, it is comparable to a cargo bike according to the manufacturer, but only 84 centimeters wide. Its bubble is also removable to avoid overheating during heatwaves.

Podbike emphasizes that its vehicle is classified as an electric bicycle, but its dimensions will exclude it from certain narrow bike lanes, especially in the city. Another consequence of its status is that no license, registration, or insurance is required. And forget about wearing a helmet thanks to the protection of the bodywork, or the danger of slippery roads.

The interior is suitable for only one seated person, but with an adjustable seat and multiple options. It can accommodate either a child up to 22 kg at the rear or offer a 160-liter storage space. The driver also benefits from a USB port and a phone holder.

Minimum 50 km of range

Like all electric assist vehicles, the maximum speed is 25 km/h. This does not prevent Podbike from claiming a top speed of 60 km/h… downhill (🤷‍♂️).

Technically, its motor is limited to 250 W, but its torque is sufficient to handle slopes up to 18%. Its battery capacity is unofficial, but it is estimated to range between 50 and 80 kilometers depending on usage.

The Frikar does not stop at simple micromobility, as a self-driving version is being studied. Controlled remotely, the electric quadricycle could move at 6 km/h without its driver. But more details will have to wait.

What is the price of the Podbike Frikar?

Knowing the base electric bicycle price and the automotive shell around it, an expensive price was to be expected. Still, no five-figure price; the Frikar is listed at €6,249.

There is also an upgraded “Plus” finish. This adds mirrors, interior lighting, ventilation, floor mats, and side pockets. Its cost rises to €6,899, the price of a Citroën Ami excluding bonus. Due to supply chain issues, Podbike has already announced a price increase for next May.

Interested parties should hurry to pre-order, which is open at 300 euros. Production and first deliveries of the Frikar will begin in spring 2022. However, with 3,400 pre-orders secured, the manufacturer already guarantees a full year in 2022. New pre-orders will only be fulfilled in 2023.

Also read: Twike 5: 3.8 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h for this astonishing electric tricycle