When you think of folding cargo electric bikes, you probably imagine short-tail or long-tail models with a cargo rack behind the rider. German startup Car.Los Mobility has instead combined the payload of a front loader with the benefits of a folding electric bike for the V1.
The Car.Los V1 cargo electric bike was first unveiled as a prototype at Eurobike 2023, then garnered praise from the iF Design jury at the Taipei Cycle Show, and was subsequently nominated for Best Cargo Bike at Cycling World 2024.
Its best features include a patent-pending mid-frame folding mechanism that reduces its size by half in seconds, combined with folding handlebars and a cargo basket that folds like a handbag for increased aerodynamics while carrying cargo. It’s about being there.
The V1’s folded dimensions are 108 x 44 x 83 cm (42.5 x 17.3 x 32.6 inches), which means it’s “easy to travel by car, train or public transport.” Being able to fold a cargo bike is also useful for those who don’t have the garage space to store a full-sized longjohn between rides.
carlos mobility
Power is provided by a 250 W Brose Drive-T mid-mounted motor that provides up to 25 km/h (15.5 mph) with pedal assist and 70 Nm (51.6 lb.ft) of torque. An Enviolo N380 Cargo stepless shifting hub is also included for smooth gear changes without the need to stop or backpedal. Range-per-charge figures have not been released, but a 522Wh battery is mounted under the cargo basket to keep the center of gravity low for “safe and stable” handling.
carlos mobility
The PAS long john has a load capacity of up to 195 kg (430 lbs) and the Vario basket can hold up to 65 kg. Adopts a double kickstand to increase stability when parking. This bike has a 20-inch rim in the rear and a 16-inch rim in the front, both shod with Schwalbe pickup rubber. Magura MT05 hydraulic disc brakes with 180 mm rotors provide increased stopping power. And there are 80 lux LED headlights and brake taillights.
The “Two-Wheel Swiss Pocket Knife” was released earlier this year, priced at 5,199 euros (~5,400 USD, although international availability is unknown). If you want to install your own front basket, you can buy the basic version for 400 euros less. We also have optional items such as rear racks.
Product page: Car.Los V1
