Japanese car giant Toyota has taken a further leap into the world of electric mobility by launching its first electric cargo bike. Well, sort of. And only if you live in France.
Toyota France has agreed a partnership with Douze Cycles to put its name to a new e-cargo bike. The machine will be made by the Dijon-based e-bike firm, but will go on sale in September 2023 in the Japanese firm’s 300 French car dealerships.
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The new Douze Cycles x La mobilité Toyota features an aluminium frame, with a large 850mm load platform ahead of the rider that can be fitted with a 300-litre polypropylene storage box. The bike is designed to offer the lowest possible centre of gravity.
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The machine can carry loads of up to 100kg – of, if you prefer, up to three children or one adult. Notably, the frame of the bike can be separated into two parts to make it easier to store.
While the Douze Cycles x La mobilité Toyota carries the Japanese firm's branding, the electric motor is entirely unrelated to the powertrain on the Toyota bZ4X. In fact, it’s actually a Yamaha unit, which offers 250 Watts and is powered by a 500Wh removable battery. It will offer electric assist for up to 62 miles on a charge, and can be fully charged in around four hours.
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There’s a 10-speed Shimano gear system, Tektro M750 four-piston hydraulic disc brakes, cargo e-bike-specific Schwalbe Pick-up tyres and Busch and Müller LED lights. The front wheels are 20in, with 26in units at the rear.
Douze Cycles puts a major focus on minimising the carbon footprint of its products, and the new bike has been built using polymer parts made from recycled materials. The machine is constructed in 17 interchangeable parts, which means that small elements can be repaired or replaced easily, while the frame can also accommodate different motors. The bike is also intended to be easy to dismantle and recycle.
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