DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF A WEATHER-PROTECTED ELECTRIC BICYCLE

Abstract

The transition toward sustainable transportation has become a global necessity due to the increasing concerns of environmental degradation, depletion of fossil fuels, and rapid urbanization. Electric mobility has emerged as a promising solution to address these challenges, with electric bicycles (e-bikes) gaining significant attention due to their affordability, efficiency, and eco-friendly characteristics. However, despite the widespread adoption of e-bikes, their practical usability is often limited by environmental exposure, including rain, sunlight, dust, and wind conditions, which adversely affect rider comfort, safety, and overall system reliability. This research work focuses on the design and development of a weather-protected electric bicycle that integrates a lightweight structural framework with an efficient electric propulsion system. The proposed system utilizes a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe-based structure to support a protective canopy that shields the rider from adverse weather conditions. The design prioritizes cost-effectiveness, ease of fabrication, lightweight construction, and durability, making it suitable for real-world applications, especially in urban and semi-urban regions. The electric bicycle operates using a battery-powered motor system, which converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to drive the rear wheel. The integration of the weather protection mechanism ensures that the rider remains comfortable and protected without significantly affecting the aerodynamic performance or energy efficiency of the vehicle. The structural design is optimized to maintain stability, balance, and minimal additional load on the bicycle frame. Extensive testing and performance evaluation were conducted to analyze parameters such as speed, battery efficiency, load capacity, and environmental adaptability. The results demonstrate that the system achieves a maximum speed of approximately 20–25 km/h and a travel range of 30–40 km per charge while maintaining structural integrity and rider comfort under varying weather conditions. This work highlights the potential of combining simple engineering principles with innovative design approaches to develop cost-effective and sustainable mobility solutions. The proposed system can be further enhanced through the integration of advanced materials, smart control systems, and renewable energy sources, making it a viable solution for future transportation systems.