Summary
- Volkswagen partnered with n+ to develop a new range of premium electric bicycles
- The Smart View system combines a rear camera, handlebar display and radar sensors
- An integrated LED strip functions as a daytime light, brake light and turn indicator
- The Smart Helmet can detect crashes and notify selected contacts
- The Smart Glasses display navigation and blind-spot warnings
- UK pricing for the Sport models starts at £3,999
Volkswagen and n+ have unveiled a new range of electric bicycles that transfers automotive safety technologies to everyday cycling.
The new Volkswagen eBike range features the Smart View system, combining a high-definition rear camera, a handlebar display and radar sensors that monitor surrounding traffic. Its developers describe it as the world’s first electric bicycle with an integrated rear-view camera and dashboard display.
The significance of this approach is that eBike development is no longer focused exclusively on battery range and motor power. Volkswagen is attempting to integrate active safety systems directly into the bicycle, helping riders detect approaching vehicles earlier while making them more visible to other road users.
Rear camera and handlebar display
The high-definition camera is mounted on the rear mudguard and transmits a live image to a display integrated into the handlebars. This allows the cyclist to see what is happening behind them without repeatedly turning their head.
At the same time, the radar monitors approaching vehicles and can warn the rider about traffic in the blind spot. The system resembles the blind-spot monitoring technology and digital mirrors increasingly used in modern cars.
Lighting that signals braking and turning
A full-length illuminated LED strip runs through the bicycle’s top tube. In addition to operating as a daytime running light, it turns red when the rider brakes and amber when the indicators are activated.
The aim is to help drivers, motorcyclists and other cyclists understand the rider’s intentions more easily.
Smart Helmet with crash detection
The optional Smart Helmet connects to the bicycle through Bluetooth and synchronizes its lighting with the signals produced by the eBike.
It also includes an accelerometer capable of detecting a possible collision or fall. In an emergency, the system can automatically send a message to selected contacts.
Information displayed through smart glasses
The system is completed by the optional Smart Glasses, which project information directly into the cyclist’s field of vision.
The glasses can display navigation directions, ride data and warnings about vehicles in the blind spot. Their operation is inspired by automotive head-up displays, while engineers with experience in fighter-pilot helmet displays were reportedly involved in their development.
Pricing and optional equipment
Sport models start at £3,999 in the UK and include the Smart View display and rear-view camera.
The Smart Helmet and Smart Glasses are sold separately for £499 each, placing the system firmly within the premium eBike category.
What we think
Bringing automotive technology to electric bicycles is a logical development, particularly for commuters travelling through busy urban roads. Integrating the camera, radar and lighting signals into the bicycle itself is more practical than relying on several separate accessories, although the high price could initially limit its appeal.
Frequently asked questions
What is Volkswagen Smart View?
It is a system that combines a high-definition rear camera, a handlebar display and radar-based traffic monitoring.
Can the eBike warn riders about vehicles in the blind spot?
Yes. Its radar sensors can detect approaching vehicles and alert the rider.
What information can the Smart Glasses display?
They can project navigation instructions, ride information and warnings about hazards or vehicles in the blind spot.
What does the Smart Helmet do after a crash?
The Smart Helmet can detect an accident using its accelerometer and automatically send a message to selected contacts.
How much does the Volkswagen eBike cost?
Sport models start at £3,999 in the UK, while the Smart Helmet and Smart Glasses cost £499 each.
