India as a country offers its own set of challenges. With the population growing at a rapid pace in urban areas, commuting has become a problem. And though modes like Metro rail and BRT corridors are coming up, last mile connectivity still remains an issue that is yet to be solved. Enter CycleLoop, an Indian innovation that promises to change the way we travel limited distances.
Primerail Infralabs
Invented by Bengaluru based start-up Primerail Infralabs, CycleLoop is a uniquely Indian solution to a local problem. It¡¯s a battery-less electric bicycle transportation system that runs on either elevated or ground level tubed tracks. The cycles are self-balanced and the tracks self-guiding, there¡¯s minimum input required from the users and even novices can use the system.
Primerail infralabs
But the company is also pitching it as a healthy alternative to cars. Users can choose to pedal the bike themselves and when they do, the sensors cut the power supply. Once tired, the users can switch back to electric power. A little exercise never hurt anybody, is known to boost brainpower and keep your heart healthy. There¡¯s a monetary benefit too. The more the users pedal, lesser they have to pay. For example, let¡¯s say for a particular distance the fee for using CycleLoop is Rs 10 on electric power alone; pedaling can cut that down based on how much a user pedals. The airflow is also managed within the tubes to provide an air-conditioned environment and least air resistance.
Primerail infralabs
The company has come up with a test track in Bengaluru and is putting the system through its paces. The first operational track, however, may come up in Hyderabad, the company says, it¡¯s in talks with various agencies to make CycleLoop a reality.
Different iterations of bikes being offered - with single, two and four seats along with the ability to carry luggage. CycleLoop is being touted as a last mile connectivity option for Metro rail, within tech parks and a cost effective mode of transportation for Tier II and Tier III towns.
Primerail Infralabs
CycleLoop should come up in the next two years in India.