Solar Bike Trailer

What is it?

A futuristic bicycle trailer with its own drive, powered by a motor fed by a solar panel in the lid. Consequently, carrying any cargo requires hardly any extra effort from the rider. The built-in battery ensures a permanent power supply. The battery is charged by the solar panel, but also by using recovered braking energy. The battery can also be charged via mains power.

This makes it easier to cover a greater weight and a longer distance. The trailer also offers the possibility of additional lighting, charging a smartphone, and cooling a cool box.

CO2-neutral and last-mile transport.

In 1994 Alan Lentz won Sustainable Unlimited a national ideas competition on the theme of ‘Cycling and solar energy’. The competition was an initiative of RVO (when November) and Holland Solar. The jury also consisted of ANWB, the Ministry of VROM (Masterplan Cycling), ENFB and was full of praise. It generated a big wave of publicity in all the media, including abroad.

Alan Lentz found WeLLDesign to be the agency to develop the idea into a working prototype.

A futuristic concept

Attempts at the time to bring the idea into production failed primarily due to the climate not yet being ready for such vehicles. Now, topics such as CO2 emissions and fine particulate matter pollution have become current. And electrically powered vehicles are very much in the spotlight. Especially also for cleanly handling the ‘last mile’ from distribution centres on the outskirts of the city to the low-emission city centre.

Smart features

Ingenious electronics ensure the trailer accelerates and brakes automatically. No operation is necessary from the bicycle, so no wires or similar. This allows the trailer to be attached to any bicycle, enabling users to set off with their own bike. Smart sensors ensure the trailer always follows you safely – it neither pushes nor pulls. Ideal for users who switch frequently, such as with a delivery service or within a family.

It is possible to electrically cool, or heat, the trailer, depending on the type of transport. Ideal for small delivery services such as pizzerias, florists, parcel services, pharmacies, and so on. The lid is, of course, secured against unwanted opening by means of a fingerprint scanner.

The Solar Bike trailer is built modularly from super-light and super-strong recyclable thermoplastic composite. This also applies to the chassis and the base, which consist of a single component.

Also highly suitable for recreational cyclists to take along a bit extra on short or (very long) cycling trips. It also offers the possibility to charge your phone and tablet. A godsend for the world cyclist needing extra luggage. And for nice extras like lighting and a shaver.

The smart electronics inform the rider about the remaining battery capacity, and the expected range based on historical data combined with current weather conditions. This is done via the accompanying smartphone app.

The Solar Bike Trailer 2.0

‘An innovation often takes a generation to become a reality’ or ‘Pioneers are 30 years ahead’. Now, 30 years later, we see excellent opportunities for the Solar Bike Trailer. In 2023, the Solar Bike Trailer has once again come to the fore. The idea has been revived and is now being further developed.