In this movie filmed in Vancouver, Kody Baker explains how his start-up VeloMetro is hoping to convince people to switch to a cleaner, healthier form of transport with a car-like vehicle that you pedal like a bike.
Called Veemo, the three-wheeled vehicle is fully enclosed and features a steering wheel, bucket seat and a lockable boot like a car, but must be pedalled to operate.
It is aimed at people living in cities who would normally be put off from cycling, says VeloMetro co-founder Baker in the movie, which was filmed at the start-up's studio in Vancouver, Canada.
"Studies have shown that up to 60% of a city's population would like to cycle more, but they don't right now," he says.
"They don't want to be exposed to the elements, they're afraid of riding in traffic, they don't have any room for storage. The Veemo really solves all these issues."
The increased weight of the vehicle compared to a traditional bicycle is offset by battery-powered electric motors, which assist the driver as they pedal.
"It has pedals like a bike, but as you pedal we add the strength of two Olympic athletes through our motors," Kody says. "It's providing a car-like experience, but it's regulated as a bicycle. So you don't need a driver's license, you don't need insurance. You have access to bike lanes, so you're not stuck in traffic."
The Veemo is being developed as an alternative to car-sharing networks, where customers have access to a fleet of vehicles they can hire for short-distance trips, and VeloMetro is developing a mobile app to enable people to locate, book and unlock the vehicles.
"We really designed Veemo from the ground up to be directed towards sharing networks, so that you can rent it by the minute," Kody explains.
"You use your cellphone, find the vehicle that is closest to you and unlock it with the app. You get in, enter your pin number, and then you're good to go."
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