Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg recently traded in their F1 wheels for something slightly less zippy but equally as cutting-edge. The MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula 1 drivers are the world’s first owners of the new smart ebike, which will be launched on the market in April 2012. Schumacher and Rosberg received their futuristic ebikes at the last test day in Barcelona before the start of the season.
Handing over the ebikes at the Circuit de Catalunya near Barcelona smart boss Dr. Annette Winkler said “Just like a Formula 1 race car, the smart ebike is perfectly tailored to the needs of its rider. The whole smart team is really pleased and proud that Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg will now be using their smart ebikes to get around the paddock and beyond.”
Accepting the ebike Michael Schumacher said with a twinkle in his eye “Just like KERS on our race cars the electric motor on the ebike provides extra thrust. This means that we are also among the front-runners in the drivers’ paddock.” And Nico Rosberg added “Formula 1 means enjoying high tech – and that’s certainly the case with the smart ebike. The smart ebike is the coolest form of cycling.”
The smart ebike will initially be available in two colour variants: in crystal white with electric green accent trim parts and in matt dark grey with flame orange accent trim parts. The price is attractive – for example, in Germany it starts at €2849 (incl. VAT). With an unconventional design in line with the style of the brand, functions appropriate for city use and high technology standards that are demonstrated by the extremely efficient and high-performance drive package and high-quality components, the smart ebike has an exceptional position and guarantees dynamic, safe and fun cycling.
As a pedelec (Pedal Electric Cycle) the smart ebike is strictly speaking a hybrid vehicle: the electric motor switches on as soon as the rider starts pedaling. Muscle power is transmitted to the rear wheel via a lubricant-free, durable and quiet belt drive in place of a conventional bicycle chain.
