Electric tricycles
Three stable wheels, electric propulsion and a low step-through make these vehicles a practical alternative to the bicycle and the scooter. Electric tricycles are driven by a motor powered from a rechargeable battery and are steered from the handlebars, with a throttle grip or with pedal assistance. They suit older and less mobile people, the transport of shopping or cargo, as well as leisurely rides through town. They are chosen according to range, load capacity and motor power.
Electric tricycles
Three wheels give a sense of security that a two-wheeler does not offer — the vehicle stands on its own, cannot tip over when starting or stopping and is handled even by someone who no longer trusts a bicycle. It is precisely for this reason that electric tricycles are popular with older people, those with reduced mobility and everyone looking for a comfortable and safe way to get around without much effort.
The range covers several types. Tricycles for seniors and rehabilitation have a low step-through, a wide saddle, a backrest and a basket, so that they make daily rides and shopping easier. Cargo and transport tricycles carry a platform, a box or a basket at the rear and serve for delivering goods, garden work or use on company premises. Urban and leisure models, in turn, combine comfort with a range sufficient for longer outings and differ in load capacity, the size of the cargo space and range depending on their purpose.
The drive is provided by an electric motor, most often in the hub of the rear or front wheel, powered from a lithium or lead battery. The range on a single charge is in the order of tens of kilometres and depends on the battery capacity, the weight of the load and the terrain. Also important is the load capacity, that is, how much the rider and load weigh together, as well as the motor power, the type of brakes and the wheel size, which determine the behaviour on an uneven road.
In the choice, the purpose is decisive — an older person needs different parameters for short trips around the neighbourhood and someone who transports a heavy load every day needs others. It is worth paying attention to range, load capacity, the control method (throttle grip or pedal assistance) and equipment such as lighting, mudguards and a lock. Well-chosen electric tricycles offer independence and comfortable mobility for work, shopping and a shorter trip, without much effort and with low running costs.