For over 150 years Peugeot has created an array of products that are as countless as they are diverse. At 2012 Paris motor show, which took place from September 29 to October 14, the French brand presented also its full range of concept products in the bikes segment, showing, alongside cars, some interesting concept (some of them very close to a market reality), characterized by very different approaches to the idea of bike and mobility.
DL121
Produced as a extremely limited edition offering, Peugeot Design Laboratory’s new concept DL121 bicycle is described as “an exploration in contrast”. The contrast between function and aesthetics, and the contrast in finishes were two dominant concepts implemented by Peugeot transportation designer Cathal Loughnane. Loughnane’s primary objective was to play on the theme of a dynamic diagonal separation between the two halves of bicycle. At the front of the bike there is a deep and rich copper, while the rear is finished in pure brilliant white. The bike features innovative leather work. As well as the saddle there is also a luggage area ingeniously integrated into the frame. Double zips give easy access to a space ideal for precious objects such as a digital tablet, which is a plus to the urban rider/commuter who needs to ride with his gadgets.
eDL122
The eDL 122 is a bike designed by Neil Simpson to be as compact as possible and offers a protected storage area designed to accommodate your documents or a laptop. The items will fit securely between the two walls of the main frame and lock into place; they will also maintain the center of gravity of the bike, allowing it to provide a better balance, contrary to backpacks and saddle bags. Made out of wood and aluminum, with a leather saddle and grips, it has compact 20-inch wheels and a hub that offers 8 speeds. Imagined as a urban bike concept, the original DL122 received an electric motor for the Eurobike 2012 show, becoming the eDl122. Peugeot has managed to keep the design and manages the “tour de force” of integrating in this superb aluminum and wood frame an electric motor located in the front wheel (20 inches), a “modern” leather bag that welcomes and protects a computer and papers, a ABUS Bordo 6000 lock and a removable battery.
eDL132
The eDL132 is a high performance pedelec designed by Benjamin Goudout with a motor mounted under the bottom bracket and integrated in the frame in order not to disrupt the style, two disc brakes front and rear are in charge of stopping the bike. The removable battery is also integrated in the frame, transmission is belt driven and the gear shift is “electric”. Finally, a taillight is integrated to the saddle, the handlebar also hosts a lighting system and a touch screen control with GPS.
ONYX
This time trial bike is the second concept designed by Neil Simpson for Peugeot. It formed part of the display at the Paris motor show alongside the Onyx supercar and scooter, all in the same copper and black finish. At the moment it is a concept but it was created around the UCI regulations with the triple aim of being super aero, extremely easy to adjust ergonomically and super sexy. Cables and brakes are hidden to create the cleanest possible look and aero performance for all sizes of riders. Some novel features are the completely flush quick release skewers, the ‘flippable’ seat post, hidden Di2 battery and the unique stem adjustment. The cockpit area is all unique, from the Peugeot chequer grips on the arm rest (repeated on the saddle) to the integrated brake and gear levers. A glass blade computer is operated from a switch on the aero bars.
TROTTINETTE
Not a bike, but close to its world, the concept of this three-wheeled electric kick scooter is to rethink urban mobility, in order to improve accessibility to the city in a pleasurable and easy way. Three wheels give more stability, even at low speed and with an electric motor in the rear wheel it is both fun and effortless to ride. With all the compactness and portability of a classic scooter, it is a must in the city. The design is sporty: crisp lines are combined with subtle and elegant volumes. It is equipped with LED lights front and rear. Every function is fully integrated into the design and there is even a dock in the handlebars to connect your mobile phone. With a dedicated application, it can display all the necessary information: speedometer, battery, GPS.
