Today, ebikes have become a natural part of many metropolises, an environmentally sound companion that is used by many people for quick shopping tours or on their daily way to work. The smart ebike features an unconventional design with a clear and entirely novel design idiom. The two-material and two-colour concept as well as the profile lines have been modelled on the smart car. The main components such as the frame, battery housing, handlebars, lights and mudguards have also been designed and developed specifically for smart. In order to lend the smart ebike its overall concise, conscious and highly independent appearance, the design concept had to boldly break with conventional approaches to bicycle design. Instead of simply attaching an electric motor onto the familiar shape of a bicycle, the aim was to integrate all components of the electric drive consistently into the overall design. The functionality and ergonomics of this ebike are also innovative. The ebike allows easy and comfortable mounting and all user elements are intuitive and in close reach. Furthermore, the smart ebike is lightweight for an ebike. It can be pulled up a curb easily and takes up little space when stored in a garage. The bikes stowage space concept is also well thought out. It features a clear design and is in easy reach. The smart ebike thus contributes a new form of functionality and mobility to any cityscape.

designer: mercedes-benz advanced-design
producer: daimler AG
period: 2012
award: red dot 2012