The BMW i Vision AMBY is a visionary electric bike that takes urban mobility to new heights, offering an exciting alternative to conventional e-bikes. Designed with the modern city commuter in mind, the i Vision AMBY blends the practicality of an e-bike with advanced features, providing more power and versatility for navigating urban areas. Unveiled at the IAA Mobility event, it stands out as one of five concept vehicles showcasing BMW’s vision for future city mobility. The vehicle perfectly integrates electric propulsion, digital technology, and sustainability, offering a flexible mobility solution powered by sustainable thinking.
Adaptive Mobility for the Urban Commuter
The “AMBY” in BMW i Vision AMBY stands for “adaptive mobility,” and the bike reflects this with its innovative features. Fitted with an electric drive system that offers three distinct speed modes, the i Vision AMBY adapts to various road types. On cycle tracks, it reaches speeds of up to 25 km/h (15.5 mph), on city streets, it goes up to 45 km/h (28 mph), and on multi-lane roads or highways, it can achieve a top speed of 60 km/h (37 mph). Higher speeds require appropriate insurance and a license. Unlike traditional e-bikes, users must pedal continuously to activate the electric motor’s assistance.
The bike’s settings can be manually selected via an app or adjusted automatically through geofencing technology. This ensures that the speed is optimized depending on the user’s location and the type of road they are on. This dynamic approach to urban mobility paves the way for new regulations, prompting the introduction of a flexible, modular speed concept that suits the changing needs of city infrastructure.
A New Category of Urban Mobility
In an era where traditional vehicle categories are being redefined, the BMW i Vision AMBY blurs the lines between bicycles and motorcycles. As Werner Haumayr, Vice President of BMW Group Design Conception, explains, the i Vision AMBY is designed to fit seamlessly into urban environments, allowing users to travel faster than with conventional bikes while maintaining a focus on fitness and flexibility. It provides a versatile solution for those looking to navigate the complexities of city life with speed and style.
Ideal for large cities, the i Vision AMBY is positioned as an innovative second vehicle for families or an entry point for those exploring pedal-powered, electrified two-wheelers. The three riding modes give users a wider range of possibilities than a standard e-bike, making it a compelling option for urban transport.
Design: Performance and Practicality
The design of the BMW i Vision AMBY emphasizes both style and functionality. The frame combines athletic elegance with robust construction, offering a blend of racing bike aesthetics and e-bike stability. Crafted from sculptural aluminum profiles, the frame is designed not only to look modern but also to enhance the bike’s overall performance. The sleek lines and slightly rising top tube contribute to its dynamic and sporty feel, while the frame’s design includes functional elements such as storage space for a backpack or laptop.
Powering the i Vision AMBY is a 2,000 Wh battery, located centrally within the frame. This high-capacity battery provides an impressive range of up to 300 km (186 miles), depending on the selected riding mode. Charging is quick, with a full recharge taking just three hours. The bike uses a low-maintenance toothed belt for power transfer, while the integrated drive unit provides pedal assistance. A unique single-sided swinging arm connects the rear wheel to the frame, ensuring smooth handling. With 120 mm of suspension travel in the front and rear, the i Vision AMBY is designed to handle urban roads and speeds up to 60 km/h (37 mph) with ease. Its 27.5-inch wheels, fitted with larger, wider tires, ensure excellent comfort and safety.
Sustainable Urban Transport
The BMW i Vision AMBY is not only a high-performance urban transport option but also a symbol of sustainability. The bike’s design incorporates eco-friendly materials, such as anodized secondary aluminum, and recycled plastics in the handlebars and battery cover. These materials can be easily reintroduced into the production cycle once the bike reaches the end of its life. Additionally, the brake fluid is derived from rapeseed oil, reinforcing the vehicle’s commitment to sustainability. BMW also ensures that the components are locally produced in Germany, reducing transportation distances and supporting the circular economy.
Smart Technology for Seamless Riding
Smartphone integration is a key feature of the BMW i Vision AMBY. The bike’s app functions as a digital key, allowing users to unlock the bike, adjust settings, and access features like insurance and license details. The app also enables over-the-air software updates, ensuring that the bike stays current with the latest advancements. The seat post can be adjusted biometrically based on the rider’s profile stored in the app, ensuring an optimal fit for a comfortable ride.
Geofencing technology also plays a central role in the i Vision AMBY. By using detailed mapping services, the bike can automatically adjust the maximum speed based on the type of road it’s traveling on. This means that the i Vision AMBY can shift from a pedelec to an S-pedelec or even behave like a light motorcycle when needed. The app and e-ink display ensure that users and other road users are always aware of the selected mode, maintaining safety and compliance with traffic regulations.
Advanced Safety Features
To enhance safety, the BMW i Vision AMBY comes equipped with a variety of advanced features. These include a tire pressure monitoring system, an ABS system optimized for bicycles, and a proximity radar to alert users of approaching vehicles from behind. Additionally, an automatic high-beam assistant, brake light assistant, and daytime riding lights could be included to ensure visibility in all conditions.
Conclusion
The BMW i Vision AMBY redefines urban mobility with its unique combination of power, flexibility, and sustainability. By blending the best aspects of e-bikes and light motorcycles, it provides an exciting, eco-friendly alternative for city commuting. With smart technology, a sleek design, and a commitment to the circular economy, the i Vision AMBY is more than just a bike; it’s a glimpse into the future of transportation. Whether used for commuting or leisure, the BMW i Vision AMBY promises to be a versatile, futuristic vehicle that suits the demands of the modern city.
