Bulgarian designer Valentin Vodev has created the 'Vello Bike,' a folding bike featuring a magnetic locking system. Three versions of the Vello, which has the ability to be wheeled even when folded, were showcased during Vienna's Design Week.
Unlike Vodev's previous models, this bike is specifically targeted towards the "active consumer." Vodev realized that the bike needed to be compact, otherwise it would limit movement throughout the city. He came up with the folding bike design, which can be boarded onto public transportation with ease and comfort. This gives cyclists the option of deciding, and modifying, their route.
The back wheel is connected, via magnet, to the Vello's overall frame. The positioning of the magnet is what allows it to be folded, at least partially, in a single motion, sending the back wheel towards the front. The bike can also be fully folded for more convenient storage.
Magnetically Folding Bikes
The Vello Bike is Perfect for Your Commuting Needs
Trend Themes
1. Magnetically-folding Bikes - Magnetic locking systems on folding bikes can be a disruptive innovation opportunity for the bike manufacturing industry.
2. Active Consumer Targeting - Manufacturers can develop products that specifically cater to the needs of active consumers to enter and disrupt the market.
3. Compact Commuting Solutions - Creating innovative, compact solutions for commuting can lead to a breakthrough in the urban mobility industry.
Industry Implications
1. Bike Manufacturing - The innovation opportunities offered by magnetic folding systems can disrupt the traditional bike manufacturing industry.
2. Urban Mobility - Developing compact and efficient solutions for urban commuting can introduce disruptive innovation opportunities within the urban mobility industry.
3. Transportation - Integrating bikes with other modes of transportation can be a new area for innovation in transportation to solve last-mile issues.