Are electric bikes about to take the next logical step to solar charging?  U.K. e-bike maker, Powacycle, is developing a solar charging system for its Infineum range of e-bikes that could reduce the need for a plug-in umbilical cord.

The solar charger will be built into a module that can be attached to the battery in the luggage rack of the Infineum’s stackable battery system.  When on the move the solar panel is closed and the charger looks like an extra battery.  When the bike is stationary the charger can be opened revealing three high efficiency polycrystalline solar panels which have a combined rating of 15W at 0.4A.  For security reasons I wouldn’t park it on a NYC street, but it is a great idea for getting further off-grid.

via: bikebiz.com