Audi launches limited run electric mountain bike inspired by Dakar racer
Making up to 90Nm of torque, the bike is priced from £8,499 and comes in three sizes
German automaker Audi has announced the launch of a limited run electric mountain bike powered by Fantic.
The move is part of Audi's expansion into e-mobility products and aims to offer customers alternative means of transportation beyond cars.
Audi says the electric mountain bike has been designed with inspiration from the Audi RS Q e-tron Dakar racer, which happens to be the firm’s current focus in motorsports.
With its full suspension travel of 180mm, wide wheels, and off-road tires, the firm claims the bike is “versatile and can handle various terrains.”
The bike is made out of lightweight aluminium and has a relaxed riding position, allowing for “better reactions to obstacles and terrain ahead”.
The bike's 720-watt-hour battery pack from Fanatic is located within the frame, and delivers power to the Brose S-MAG 36 Volt motor, delivering up to 90Nm of torque.
The battery pack provides riders with four levels of electrical assistance: Eco, Tour, Sport, and Boost. Eco mode is designed for maximum efficiency and range, while Tour brings a notable level of electrical boost.
Sport mode adds powerful assistance for sport cycling, and Boost mode delivers the maximum level of electrical assistance for challenging, hilly routes.
The handlebars of the Audi electric mountain bike come with a small digital display that provides riders with an overview of key data such as battery charge and speed.
When the battery level drops to less than 10 percent, the charge level indicator will begin to flash in the top right corner of the display.
The Audi electric mountain bike is available in three sizes, with prices starting from £8,499. Customers can register their interest in the bike through Audi Genuine Accessories.
Audi's director for the UK, Andrew Doyle, said the launch of the electric mountain bike is another fantastic example of the brand's commitment to sustainable premium mobility.
He said: “At Audi, we’ve been bold in our commitment to becoming a leader in providing sustainable premium mobility.
“The Audi electric mountain bike in cooperation with Fantic is another fantastic example of how we can expand our mobility offering to customers that extends beyond the award-winning models they drive."
Audi aren’t the only car firm looking to capitalise on the e-bike trend. Last year, Polestar announced its commitment to making its own e-bikes, while Porsche has a wide range of e-bikes at this point, such as the Porsche eBike Sport, which starts at a rather hefty £11,000.