With the BMW i Vision AMBY, the first pedelec (electrically assisted bicycle) for urban use, the BMW Group is presenting a visionary two-wheeled solution for the urban mobility of tomorrow. From the outside, the BMW i Vision AMBY resembles an e-bike, but offers far more possibilities.
It is one of five different prototype vehicles with which the BMW Group is presenting its vision of personal mobility in and outside the urban environment at the IAA Mobility. Under the umbrella of electrification, digitalisation and sustainability, the five innovative prototypes create a versatile mix on two and four wheels that, based on the principles of sustainability, comprehensively responds to a variety of mobility needs.
- With the BMW i Vision AMBY, the first pedelec (electrically assisted bicycle) for urban use, the BMW Group is presenting a visionary two-wheeled solution for the urban mobility of tomorrow. From the outside, the BMW i Vision AMBY resembles an e-bike, but offers far more possibilities.
- The electric drive system has three speed categories: up to 25 km/h for cycle paths, up to 45 km/h for city centres and up to 60 km/h for multi-lane and non-urban roads.
- AMBY stands for "adaptive mobility". BMW i Vision AMBY and BMW Motorrad Vision AMBY are making an exclusive appearance at IAA Mobility 2021 as different interpretations of the basic philosophy of adaptive urban mobility on two wheels.
- The BMW i Vision AMBY takes the form of a high-speed pedelec, which means that the user has to pedal continuously to benefit from the assistance of the electric drive system. The BMW Motorrad Vision AMBY, on the other hand, is more reminiscent of a motorcycle, as it is equipped with a handgrip and motorcycle-style handrails instead of bicycle pedals.
- The speed modes available for the rider are stored in their smartphone app. The rider can select the modes themselves, while the location and type of road is automatically recognised via geofencing technology and the relevant maximum speed is set automatically.
- In the absence of a legal framework for vehicles of this kind with a flexible speed philosophy, "AMBY" Vision Vehicles will accelerate the adoption of such legislation and, consequently, the corresponding developments.
- As a second family vehicle or as an entry point into the world of electric bicycles, the BMW i Vision AMBY offers an extremely diverse range of applications. It extends the range of use of a conventional electric bicycle through intelligent technologies associated with the three riding modes.
- The design of the BMW i Vision AMBY is intensely sporty and visually light. The modern frame geometry is a mix of racing bike and sporty e-bike, but every detail says it's capable of much more than just a conventional electric bike.
- The battery is mounted in the centre of the frame. The energy content of 2,000 Wh allows a range of up to 300 km, depending on the riding mode. Thanks to fast charging technology, it can be recharged in three hours.
- Power is transmitted by a low-maintenance toothed belt, while the transmission is integrated into the drive system. An advanced single-arm swingarm - unique to a BMW Motorrad model - connects the rear wheel to the frame.
- The 120 mm front and rear suspension travel is ideal for all uses in and out of town at speeds up to 60 km/h. The 27.5" wheels are fitted with larger and wider tyres than usual to ensure excellent comfort and safety even at higher speeds.
- The steering wheel is designed as part of the chassis and has a highly technical and high-quality feel. A thin, horizontal LED light strip is integrated into the wide steering wheel and underlines the advanced technical appearance of this part of the chassis.
- The vertical LED rear light is integrated into the saddle axle. Below it, an e-ink display shows the riding mode being used.
- Sustainability does not stop at the vehicle philosophy: the chassis (secondary aluminium) together with the steering wheel components and the battery cover ("floating grey polymers") can be clearly identified as being made from the same recycled materials as the components of the BMW i Vision Circular, which is also making its premiere at the IAA Mobility 2021. These materials can be fed back into the BMW Group's material cycle more easily once the product reaches the end of its life cycle.
- The smartphone acts as a key: users can prepare the BMW i Vision AMBY for use, load the stored categories of driving licences and apply the required level of insurance cover 'on demand' from an app. Other key functions and status queries (e.g. current and planned charge level) are also available, as with the BMW app.
- The electrically adjustable seatpost is biometrically optimised to match the profile stored in the app, and adjustments are made according to the data entered - such as the height and length of the rider's legs internally - before starting.
