Manufacturing of velomobiles. How to make a velomobile from a bicycle


The dream of many modern drivers is a budget and economical vehicle that allows them not to sit for hours in traffic jams. And especially conscious motorists would not mind if their car was environmentally friendly. The ideal solution could be new project- pedal-electric velomobile.

Perhaps, some car owners have sometimes thought that it would be nice to get a vehicle that has something of a bicycle in it. PEBL, a project from the Massachusetts start-up better.bike, is perfect for them. The fully enclosed pedal-electric velomobile has some of the conveniences of a car and is legally classified as an electric bicycle.


Unlike the acclaimed Elf velomobile, the three-wheeled PEBL is equipped with a 750 W electric motor, which can be used in conjunction with or instead of pedal drive. In throttle mode (in which the driver does not pedal), it can accelerate to maximum speed at 32 km/h. A two to three hour charge of its 48V/16Ah lithium-ion battery is enough to travel 40 km, but the pedaling range depends only on the person’s endurance.


The PEBL has just one adjustable driver's seat in the front, while the rear can accommodate one adult passenger (or two small children). Behind the rear seat there is a luggage compartment with a capacity of 170 liters, which can be expanded by folding the rear seat upwards.


Some of the standard features of this extraordinary vehicle include vinyl doors with zip-up windows, rear suspension, full lighting system, cruise control, regenerative braking system (which recharges the battery while driving), 8-speed Sturmey Archer gearbox and a combination of front drum and manual brakes disc brakes behind. Options include a 600-watt heater, roof-mounted solar panels that can help charge the battery, and three additional batteries that help increase electric range.


The PEBL body is made from hemp fabric impregnated with soy-based resin. In addition to being significantly greener than fiberglass, this material is also surprisingly strong and lightweight. The entire vehicle weighs 88 kg and can carry a maximum load of 159 kg.


Those who want to get an unusual green electric bike will have to shell out $5,500. Funds are currently being raised for the mass production of PEBL on the Kickstarter platform.

Fans of environmentally friendly transport should also learn about.


We present a velomobile as an excellent means of transportation during outdoor recreation. This transport is very comfortable.

Of course, to carry out this project there is a need for some skills, for example: welding, cutting and experience working with metal materials. Before you begin, it is advisable to have an idea about this project.

All we need from materials:
1) A couple of bicycles for disassembly;
2) Square pipes with the desired cross-section (3.75 x 3.75 cm); (1.35 x 1.35 cm); (2.5 x 2.5 cm);
3) Steel pipe with a cross-section (2.5 cm);
4) composite material (chipboard);
5) Sheathing elements;
6) Sheet of steel;
7) Nuts, bolts and various fasteners;
8) Welding machine, grinder and other tools.


Let's move on to the work plan:

Stage 1 We work with the wheel and the front wheel.
Speaking briefly about the design, I would like to note its simplicity and efficiency. The main parts that represent this vehicle are the wheel and axle represented by the frame, then bicycle pedals and a chain drive represented by a chain.

All excess from the frame needs to be cut off and the grinder helps us with this. On the pipe that is located under the saddle, we make a mark for the cutting line, a V-shaped mark, then an incision should be made. The notch makes it possible to bend the pipe and form an inclination in the direction opposite to the original one.




After bending, a seam is formed that should be welded. The pipe is reinforced with a steel plate about 0.5 thick, which is shaped like a wedge. Steering column we saw off from the pipe that is located under the saddle and cut a piece of the size (3.85 x 3.85 cm) from the square-shaped pipe. The length should be 2.5 cm shorter than the steering column.






We cut off one side of the pipe and get required element in the form of a channel.


Next, we place the steering tube in this channel and weld it. The voids should be filled with small remaining steel.



One of the parts of the steering column must be removed. We remove the stopper from the saddle and disconnect the connections to the column.


After making sure that the tube elements and the stopper are even, we connect them and weld the seam. We install a piece of pipe inside the column for sliding.





Stage 2; Frame making
First, you should cut the square pipe into sections of 10 cm, 38 cm and the largest section of 70 cm, the edges should have an angle of 120 degrees.


Using the fastening system, we weld the steering column to the frame plug.



Stage 3. Making the front fork.


The next step is to move the drive sprocket to the front so that the ratchet mechanism starts working, and turn the sprockets over.


The front fork is attached to the frame in the original holes, then we cut out a blank (3.8 x 5.5) cm from a piece of steel and drill holes corresponding to the fasteners. A steel plate is attached to the frame.



We cut a slot in a steel pipe (90 cm), and a hole with a diameter of (1 cm) is drilled in the steering wheel barrel.



We match the steering column with the rod to the recess in the barrel and then weld the bottom of the pipe to a steel plate, and after that the pipe is removed. The mounting hinges are welded. We cut off the other parts of the plate.


Stage 4 Returning to work on the frame.
We weld from a pipe (3.85 x 3.85 cm) rear frame. The lengths (76.2 cm) are welded to 4 lengths (53 cm), we get a square with 2 jumpers. From a steel plate (0.47 cm) we cut 4 pieces (5 x 10 cm). In the segments we drill holes in diameter to the axes.




We use the wheel as a mark and weld the plates to the pipes. We put the velomobile on wheels.




Stage 5 We install the brakes.
Take the front fork from the bicycle and cut off the bracket.



We cut 2 pieces from the steel plate - these are the mounting plates, drill equal holes in them, fasten these elements with a brake caliper, and when the brakes are installed, weld the steel plates to the front fork.




To make cable brakes, you need a long nut, which we clamp and drill out on the side, and cut along the entire surface of the nut.



Stage 6. Shifting gears
We install the switch upside down, and the installation guide goes forward (5.7 cm) and up (0.15 cm), then we make a bracket from two pieces of the plate.



To mount the gears, we drill holes with two diameters on the axle. Fasteners are inserted into the smaller one so that the gear selector does not fall out of the desired position. We install the bracket on the axis and connect it to the switch.



Stage 7 Making a seat.
We weld 3 separate sections from a square pipe (2.5 cm).


We hang the parts of the seat one on top of the other, to do this we weld steel loop sections (2.5 x 5 x 0.50 cm) to the pipes. outside frames, and fasten the sections with bolts.

The Smart velomobile is distinguished by a durable metal frame structure, an adjustable soft seat with child restraint, convenient steering, and stability while driving. The peculiarity of the velomobile is that both children and adults can use it, both for walking around the city and for active recreation over rough terrain. In our store we will help you choose a velomobile that differs in age category and purpose.

Types of velomobiles

Our store in Moscow offers a wide selection of velomobiles:

  • velomobiles for children from 3 years to 12 years. These are cars that have a comfortable adjustable soft seat and steering wheel. They are designed for dynamic off-road driving, have a sporty design, and automatically switch to reverse. Children, riding on such cars, will gain pleasure and first driving skills. Our catalog contains velomobiles of various colors.
  • Universal velomobiles, for the age category from 12 years. These are multifunctional models that differ large sizes. They are equipped with a gear shift drive and even an on-board computer. For active recreation, this purchase is perfect. The range of this category of velomobiles ranges from inexpensive economy class velomobiles to stylish premium class cars.
  • multi-seat velomobiles (two to six seats). The models are the most expensive, but also the best. The strength of the structure allows it to withstand weight up to 250 kg. They are perfect for relaxing with the whole family, for commercial use, endowed with many functions.

Buying a velomobile in our online store is always profitable. All products have a guarantee and certificates.

Sales are carried out only with high-quality goods, represented by original models of velomobiles.

The prices for velomobiles in the catalog are designed for a wide range of buyers.

We wish you a pleasant shopping experience!

The production of velomobiles is very popular because this type transport is a budget-friendly, environmentally friendly and easy-to-use means of transportation. Currently exists large number models that differ in appearance, configuration, speed capabilities, additional accessories, etc. Velomobiles are used for both private and commercial purposes.


Types and features of velomobiles

Depending on the number of seats, velomobiles are:

single

double

quadruple

Data vehicles Designed for movement on a flat, hard surface. Models are also distinguished by the number of wheels (three or four), the presence of awnings that protect from precipitation, a trunk, etc. Compared to a bicycle, a velomobile has a more streamlined shape, a comfortable fit, and ample opportunities to carry additional passengers. Modern velomobiles are made of alloy steel using aluminum, titanium alloys, carbon fiber, plywood, etc.
Main types of velomobiles:

    walking;

    sports;

    racing, etc.

The design of the velomobile consists of:

    Frames, which can be made of round or square pipes with different sections. Most models have a spinal frame. There are also spatial frame bases.

    Open body - load-bearing or removable, mounted on a frame. Aluminum, fiberglass, etc. are used to produce the body.

    The drive is manual, foot or combined, and, depending on the movement of the legs, it can be linear, in the shape of a circle or an ellipse. The leading ones can be the front ones, rear wheels, all-wheel drive options are available. Torque is transmitted to the drive wheels using a belt, chain, driveshaft or cables. An electric motor can be installed on some models.

    The speed switch is classic or in the form of a bicycle variator. Planetary transmissions can also be installed.

    The seat is upholstered in thick mesh fabric or leather.

Velomobile manufacturing technology

The main stages of the technological process of manufacturing velomobiles:









To perform all assigned tasks efficiently and quickly, you will need special professional equipment. The standard set of equipment includes:

    Disc machines are tools for processing thick-walled pipes that are ideal for cutting pipes to size;

    Disc grinding machines - used for chamfering the ends of pipes, eliminating burrs for subsequent welding of workpieces;

    Pipe bending machines are tools for bending pipes, namely mandrelless and mandrel bending. Using push-pull pipe bending technology, you can bend the workpiece at any angle;

    The welding machine is an indispensable solution for semi-automatic welding in a carbon dioxide environment;

    Straight grinder – used for cleaning weld seams; a burr of the required configuration is included in the kit.

Where to buy tools for the production of velomobiles?

All of the above and other equipment can be found in our catalog. The machines presented to your attention strictly comply with national and international quality standards. Having such a set in the company’s arsenal, it is possible to launch mass production of velomobiles or expand the existing workshop. As practice shows, investments in technology quickly pay off. The machines can also be used for the production of other metal structures or rented out. Explore configuration options, costs, and equipment options. Invest in certified and proven equipment that will bring you a stable profit. We are waiting for your orders!

Velomobiles

Velomobile- this is a kind of similarity to a bicycle, with the exception of one distinctive feature: it has four wheels instead of two. This vehicle was created in Holland more than two decades ago. A 15-year-old boy decided to create a four-wheeled bicycle with a pedal drive. A few years later, it was he who founded the first production, which was engaged in the production and sale of velomobiles.

Now this means of transportation and recreation is widespread on almost the same scale as ordinary bicycles. There are several types of models, each of which differs in several technical parameters: the type of surface on which the velomobile moves best, the number of seats, the maximum permissible weight of passengers, as well as a bicycle, velomobile can be equipped with several gears. In addition to the vehicle itself, there is a large number of different accessories, ranging from a banal set of protection to all kinds of decorative elements that allow you to create a unique appearance models.

Peculiarities

Velomobile It has a structure similar to a regular car, but it is driven by muscle power. This is a kind of comfortable bike. Distinctive feature velomobile is that it can be used by people of absolutely any age, starting from about three years. When riding it, there is no need to keep balance, which expands its accessibility for people who do not know how to ride a bicycle; this becomes possible thanks to its stable design velomobile.

The popularity of bicycles has simply swept over humanity recently. Also found their peak of popularity velomobiles. In addition to the usual classic look, many manufacturers produce models that imitate real cars from world famous manufacturers, ranging from the usual common car brands to a formula one car.

Modern appearance velomobile It looks like a simple design, but in fact it is not. The design may vary depending on the number of seats, for example, for single-seat velomobile the frame is not as strong as for the model, which has four seats. Some models with a large number Seats have several drives, most often the two front seats are equipped with pedals. This makes it convenient for two or more people to ride, because it is much easier to develop high speed, using the strength of two people.

Just like "big brothers" velomobiles They are equipped with good suspension, therefore, they can drive not only on asphalt, but also on rough terrain. Durable wheels coupled with a good responsive steering wheel allow you to ensure high level handling characteristics for a given vehicle.

In conclusion

Our company is engaged in the sale of velomobiles exclusively high quality. It is guaranteed by manufacturers whose models are purchased directly. It is also worth noting that our store holds constant promotions. Our line includes velomobiles for both private and commercial use. The price of goods in our store is very affordable, and you can purchase anything from anywhere in our country, because we deliver as quickly as possible to any corner of the Russian Federation.