Latest bicycle is hydrogen powered

The latest design of electric-assisted bicycle from Iwatani of Tokyo does away with the need for recharging points by using hydrogen cartridges as a source of fuel.

Hydrogen fuel cells usually replace the need for batteries but this bicycle will include a lithium-ion pack as a back-up power supply.

One hydrogen cartridge will give the 31kg bicycle a range of 45 miles.

How clean is a fuel cell bicycle?

Not as clean as a conventional bike is the quick answer, but power-assisted cycles provide a relatively clean mode of transport for those who are unwilling or unable to pedal all the time.

Hydrogen is only as clean as the energy sources used to produce it. Hydrogen produced by sustainable means such as wind power is entirely benign, but there are environmental concerns surrounding the use of nuclear power to produce the gas. Small hydrogen gas-producing units for the home that can be powered by sustainable energy providers are being developed.

Hydrogen fuel stations

Britain’s first hydrogen fuel station opened in Birmingham last year and there will be at least twelve stations countrywide by 2010.

The company that installed the fuel station is also to build fuel stations for a fleet of 70 hydrogen-powered vehicles being introduced in London from next year.

A spokesperson for the Environmental Transport Association (ETA) said: “The viability of hydrogen-powered vehicles is set to improve as fossil fuels become increasingly expensive.”

Buying insurance for your bicycle

Most insurance providers should cover electric-powered bicycles, but it’s important to shop around before buying as many charge extras that you can get included for free if you do your homework. For example, every cycle insurance policy from www.ilovemybike.co.uk includes the following and costs from just 33 pence per day:

Third party cover up to £1m
Cover for theft, accidental damage and vandalism (new-for-old) RACE COVER INCLUDED
Personal accident cover up to £20,000
Breakdown recovery for your bicycle (worth £34 on its own)
90 days’ European cover
60 days’ worldwide cover
‘Get You Home’ – a taxi home should your bike be stolen or damaged
No claims discount up to 40%
Discount of 40% for folding bikes