New rickshaw model unveiled

SixThreeZero, a company based in Los Angeles that primarily sells beach bikes and electric tricycles, including several models of rickshaws with a bench for passengers in the rear, has introduced a new model called the Long Range Luxury Rickshaw. Identified by Electrek on October 7, the model features three wheels and two motors, with the ability to attach two trailers, allowing for the transportation of six passengers in addition to the driver.

Extended range and power

The company announced an autonomy of up to 193 kilometers to accommodate seven people on board, achieved through the use of three batteries: two 48-volt, 20 Ah batteries integrated into the frame and a 48-volt, 112 Ah battery placed under the rear bench, totaling 7,296 Wh. This is significantly higher than the 500 to 750 Wh typically found in classic electric city bikes.

Motor and speed capabilities

The Long Range Luxury Rickshaw is equipped with two 750 watt motors, one in the hub of the front wheel and one at the back. The driver can use a single motor or both, providing 1,500 watts of nominal power for hills. The maximum speed of 32 km/h can be achieved through pedaling with assistance or using an accelerator, a small trigger on the handlebar that moves the vehicle without pedaling.

Regulatory considerations

These features target the American market, where the tricycle exceeds the federal definition of an electric bike, which limits the motor to less than 750 watts. In France, an electric bike must be limited to a 250 watt motor, with assistance cutting off at 25 km/h, meaning the Long Range Luxury Rickshaw could not circulate in France as a bike.

Design and additional features

In terms of equipment, the rickshaw includes hydraulic disc brakes on all three wheels, a torque sensor that adjusts the assistance according to the force applied to the pedals, 20 x 4 inch tires, and a suspended fork. Additional features include headlights with high and low beams, turn signals, mirrors, stop lights, and a large basket in front.

Pricing and customization options

The base model costs $7,495 (approximately 6,700 euros before taxes) and can accommodate the driver and two passengers. Rear subframes, priced at $999 each (approximately 890 euros before taxes), are available for adding extra seats or a loading basket. Two subframes can be attached, totaling $9,493 (approximately 8,500 euros before taxes) for the seven-seat version. Some subframes are also available in a motorized version, with their own motor and battery, which the driver controls from the handlebar of the main tricycle.