The BMW i Vision AMBY pedelec can automatically limit its own speed

Is it a bird? Or is it a plane? Is it a bicycle? Or is it an electric motorcycle? Perhaps it's BMW's i Vision AMBY?

Unveiled at the IAA Munich International Motor Show, the BMW i Vision AMBY seeks to challenge our established mobility categories by occupying the space between a bicycle and a light motorcycle.

Being a pedelec, the rider of the i Vision AMBY has to constantly pedal in order to benefit from the assistance of the electric drive system, however, the drive system also enables speeds of up to 25km/h on cycle tracks, up to 45km/h on city-centre roads, and up to 60km/h on multi-lane roads and outside urban areas, challenging what we think are conventional speeds for a bicycle, assisted or not.

A smartphone attached to the i Vision AMBY will select the riding modes available with information gathered from via geofencing technology, but manual selection will also be available.

A 2kWh battery located within the geometric frame of the pedelec will provide a assisted riding range of up to 300km, depending on the riding mode. Power transfer is by low-maintenance toothed belt, and the transmission is integrated into the drive system. A sophisticated single-sided swinging arm otherwise unique to BMW Motorrad links the rear wheel with the frame.

120mm of suspension travel front and rear is ideal for all applications in and around town at speeds of up to 60km/h. The 27.5-inch wheels are fitted with larger and wider tyres than normal in order to ensure exceptional comfort and safety even at higher speeds.

BMW states it is tyring to prompt the introduction of legislation around the world for mobility devices with the i Vision AMBY, as well as demonstrate its keenness to remain part of the mobility conversation in cities, even as motor cars occupy an increasingly small space as new mobility solutions muscle in in the future.