World record-breaking e-bike launched globally

An electric bicycle which last October broke the world record for the longest distance covered on a single charge by an e-bike is about to be mass-produced, following a successful crowdfunding campaign. 

    Ukrainian courier firm Delfast designed the e-bike, which has been recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records for covering 228 miles (368 kilometres) without charge. Driver Vitalii Arhipkin, from Kiev, covered the distance in about 17 hours. 

    The firm is now promising prospective buyers a 236 mile (379 kilometres) range. 

    The average e-bike on the market has a range of between 20 and 50 miles.

    Early Bird investors who paid at least $2,499 will receive their model in May. Most pre-orders have come from the United States.

    Daniel Tonkopiy, Delfast CEO, came up with the idea after realising that existing e-bikes could not meet his firm's business needs. His couriers regularly drive more than 100 kilometres (60 miles) per day. 

    "We have moved the motorbike industry to the next level. We did for the cycling industry what Elon Musk has done for the automobile industry," Tonkopiy told Reuters.

    Key to the bike's power is its 64 Ah (amp hours) battery. It has a top speed of 34 miles per hour (57 kph) but DelFast recommends an average speed of 16 miles per hour (26 kph) to get the most from a single charge.

    Users also have the option of changing between pedal-assist and three different power modes.

    Tonkopiy admits the bike isn't cheap but says its range makes the $4,289 price tag worth every cent.

    "You can buy an e-bike for 600-700 dollars, but they are all like toys. You can drive to the supermarket or to your work, but then you need to charge it. For professional using, that's definitely not enough," he said. 

    The prototypes were produced in Ukraine, but mass production has begun in China.

    The bike contains security features such as an alarm, immobiliser and GPS tracking.