A WeatherVelo shares much in common with a bike, but with various advantages. Here you can compare the pros and cons of traditional means of personal transport alongside those of a WeatherVelo...

[1] average traffic speed across London is 16.9mph (27km/h). During peak periods in central London this slows to 10mph (16km/h) = same speed as horse-drawn carriages 100 years ago. Source: Automobile Association, 2008; from TfL.

[2] 68% of all trips are under 5 miles (8km). Source: Cyclists’ Touring Club, U.K.

[3] Average work trip distance for inner London is 5.3 miles (8.6 km), and for outer London is 7 miles (11.3km).
Source: Demographia, using data from 2001 Census.

[4] smaller battery gives range of around 20 miles, larger battery around 40 miles (exact figures to be confirmed during 2010). The battery can be charged overnight at home, or even during the day at work to maximise range for each journey. For example: commuter travelling 12 miles to work could opt for the smaller (cheaper) battery and charge the battery during the day, ready for the return trip home.

[5] but in practice 58% of car trips are under 5 miles (8km). Source: Cyclists’ Touring Club, U.K.

[6] similar scheme planned for the city of Manchester.

Other comparisons:

  • road presence better than a bike, due to bodywork (which is brightly coloured for visibility)
  • eyeline equivalent to a car (unlike low recumbents)
  • seven times more efficient than a single-occupancy car (explained below)

    Small car weighs 1000kg. Average person/rider weighs 75kg. Total weight = 1075kg. So for single-occupancy (common during commutes and errands): 75/1075 = only 7% of the energy expended is being used to move the person. 93% of the energy is just being used to move the car itself.

    WeatherVelo weighs approximately 75kg, including battery. Average person/rider weighs 75kg. Total weight = 150kg. So 75/150 = 50% of the energy is being used to move the person. This is 7 times more efficient than a small car (combustion or electric), and the person gets light exercise too. Compared to a large car the benefit is even greater.