EVLN(PR: Panasonic e-hybrid bike, NiCd or NiMH quick-release pack)

[Bruce EVangel Parmenter <brucedp@yahoo.com>]

EVLN(PR: Panasonic e-hybrid bike, NiCd or NiMH quick-release pack)
[The Internet Electric Vehicle List News. For Public EV informational
 purposes. Contact publication for reprint rights.]
 --- {EVangel}

http://electricvehiclesnw.com/main/panasonic-pr.htm ]
ELECTRIC VEHICLES NORTHWEST
Introduces Panasonic's First Electric Bicycle to The American Market
SEATTLE, WA (October 23, 2001)
Renowned Seattle specialty electric bicycle retailer Electric Vehicles
Northwest, Inc. (EVNW) is proud to introduce Panasonic’s new electric
bicycle to American consumers.  EVNW President Eric Sundin says his
company decided to carry the product because he was impressed by the
bike’s outstanding, advanced technology and superior design and
engineering.

The Panasonic electric bicycle represents a new category of vehicles
that we are delighted to introduce to the U. S. market, said Sundin,
who is a cycling enthusiast himself.  This product is a unique, hybrid
electric bicycle.  It matches motor power to pedaling power, and
doesn’t overwhelm the rider.  It offers an exceptionally smooth, easy
riding experience.

Sundin said he expects consumers will also be interested in the
product because of the strength and recognition of the Panasonic name.
We’re excited because this bike is the only ‘consumer brand name’
electric bicycle on the market, he commented.

Fun and easy to operate, the Panasonic battery-powered bicycle
combines the enjoyment of cycling with motor power assistance to
tackle hills or uneven terrain, or when riders want that extra boost
of power when traveling long distances. Users can also choose to cycle
without the aid of the motor. The bike is quiet, lightweight (just 46
lbs.), and it folds easily for storage or conveyance.

The Panasonic bicycle includes one of two rechargeable batteries and a
battery charger.  Consumers can choose the long-lasting, nickel
cadmium battery (110 minutes recharge time) or nickel metal-hydride
battery (90 minutes recharge time).

The bike's motor works with pedaling, matching machine power to human
power.  A non-contact, magnetic torque sensor is used to detect
pedaling resistance, automatically starting the motor and adjusting
the power accordingly.  The motor automatically cuts off when speed
reaches 15 mph.  Depending upon speed, terrain, rider’s weight, and
type of battery utilized, the Panasonic electric bicycle can travel up
to 35 miles on one charge.**   It also features an LCD display that
indicates power mode and battery level, and 7-speed grip shift with
gear position indicator.

This product is truly for everybody, said Sundin, whether for
commuting, running errands or exercise.  Think of it as an exercise
machine with ever-changing scenery.

The Panasonic electric bicycle is manufactured by National Bicycle
Industrial Co., an affiliate of Matsushita Electric Industrial Co.,
Ltd.  National Bicycle is the leading conventional and electric
bicycle manufacturer in Japan, and is well known for producing some of
the world's quietest, smoothest-riding and most lightweight electric
bicycles.  Panasonic bicycles incorporate leading edge technologies
created by other Matsushita division companies that specialize in
motors, batteries and bicycle tires.

The Panasonic electric bicycle is currently available only at select
specialty retailers like Electric Vehicles Northwest.  EVNW is selling
the Panasonic electric bicycle for $1,495.00.

I can see that Panasonic is serious about its marketing efforts, said
Sundin.  It’s gratifying to see such a large company committed to
giving flexible, localized support to a small specialty shop.

For more information on the Panasonic electric bicycle and other
cycling products, visit the Electric Vehicles Northwest store in
Seattle, WA, or its web site at www.e-hybridbikes.com, or call
206-547-4621.  EVNW is a full-service distributor and retailer
specializing in electric bicycles and accessories.  EVNW provides
service for and expert advice on its merchandise.  EVNW also
distributes merchandise nationally through its e-commerce operation.

About Panasonic The Panasonic electric bicycle is marketed in the
United States by Panasonic Home and Commercial Products Company.  It
is a unit of Matsushita Electric Corporation of America, the principal
North American subsidiary of Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.,
(NYSE:MC) of Japan, one of the world’s largest producers of innovative
electronic and electric products for consumer, business and industrial
use.  ** Estimate based on use of NiCd battery.

===

[ http://electricvehiclesnw.com/main/panasonic.htm ] Panasonic
Electric Bike (E-hybrid) Japan is the world's leading electric bike
market with about one millions units sold over the last five years. 
Market leaders are Panasonic, Yamaha, and Honda. Panasonic is now
introducing their new hybrid electric bike designed for the U.S. 
market. (See Press Release.)

Panasonic (Matsushita Electric) is a world leader in electronics and
batteries. The Panasonic e-hybrid bike is manufactured in Japan by its
National Bicycle Company subsidiary.

The new Panasonic e-hybrid bike handles just like any regular,
high-quality pedal-only bicycle. It rides smoothly and is completely
quiet. While nominally a medium level powered electric bike its light
weight, and highly efficient system offers excellent performance, and
range. Its pedal-activated, intuitive system allows the motor to drive
through seven speeds for unsurpassed leverage and motor protection.

The quick-release battery pack does not require charging after each
ride. Its NiCad technology has proven most durable and stores well in
drained condition.

A complete control panel on the handle bar includes on/off, and
high/economy settings, as well as a state of charge gauge.

The handle bar and saddle is designed to provide a most comfortable
upright riding position. The bike folds easily and quickly.

The price is $1,495.

Shipping + Handling within Continental U.S. (excluding Alaska, and
Hawaii) - $40.

See also our article, "Class Put on Its Head", on the new electric
bike power choices.

Panasonic Specs* Dimensions: 61" length, 25" width, wheel base 41"
Wheels/Rims: 20 x 1.5", 36H, #14 spokes Speed: 15 mph System:
Pedal-activated, power proportionate to pedal-input Motor: 240W/24V,
brushless Battery: 3.5AH NiCad, quick-release, 5 lbs weight Charger:
Smart, 1 lb weight, plugs into 110 VAC. Charges drained battery in
less than 2 hours on or off the bike.  Transmission: Pedalling, and
electric drive through 7 speed chain drive Shimano derailleur with
handlebar grip shifter.  Sprocket: Front 37T, rear 11-28T Brakes:
V-type Handlebar: Upright Saddle: Supportive, gel Folding Capability:
Lever, and locking button for easy folding in seconds.  Weight: 46
lbs, including battery pack.  Color: Black with partially gray down
tube, battery case, and chain guard.

*Figures for dimensions, and weights have been rounded off for ease of
 reading.




=====
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Electric Vehicle (EV) List & Renewable Energy (RE) Editor
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