For Christmas, discover Pi-POP’s super eco-friendly bike

The Pi-POP, autonomous bike, has no battery but supercapacitors that allow it to recharge while pedaling.

Don’t judge by appearances. This bike looks completely normal but features an unusual technology. It’s not an e-bike but an PAA (Pedal Assist Vehicle), a French innovation awarded at the 2024 Lépine competition.

No battery, no problem

This autonomous bike is equipped with supercapacitors, which store energy to be used later. In the case of the Pi-POP, it captures the cyclist’s pedaling energy during easy pedaling phases, braking, or downhill riding. Then, the bike uses the stored energy to start or climb hills. This cutting-edge technology is more eco-friendly than electric batteries because it does not require the extraction of lithium.

A Pi-POP under the Christmas tree?

In its statement, Pi-POP mentions the Ipsos Christmas 2023 barometer. It states that 75% of French people are aware of environmental issues, and among them, 86% consider this in their consumption choices. December accounts for a large part of this consumption and encourages many people to think about their purchases and their ecological impact. Electric bikes still deter some who are hesitant to buy lithium-filled batteries. The PAA is a good alternative for those wanting a comfortable and truly eco-friendly mode of transportation.

In terms of budget, its price is high but not excessive for an e-bike, at €2,690 including tax. It is eligible for purchase aid programs that could unfortunately disappear at the start of the new year. The Bike Plan introduced by Elisabeth Borne is under threat from the new government’s budget.

Read also: Cowboy electric bikes will be assembled in France