The world of light electric vehicles is still taking shape and it isn’t always easy to predict what will and won’t catch on. In recent times e-trikes have been showing signs of becoming a theme with US firm Arcimoto’s Mean Lean Machine (MLM) the latest example.
In July, we reported that BMW had designed a tilting e-cargo trike where the front ‘bike’ part of the vehicle tilts for corners while the loading platform at the rear remains stable.
Cube has since licensed and built this ‘Dynamic Cargo’ concept, setting it up so that the pick-up-style transport platform can be fitted with a selection of modular attachments for carrying luggage and/or children.
We’ve also seen a different form of tilting e-cargo trike from Mexican firm, Mastretta Bikes. Their MX3 Cargo range flips things around so that there are two wheels and a loading platform at the front and one wheel at the back.
Arcimoto’s Mean Lean Machine goes the same way. You can see it in action in the video below.
The firm’s chief tilting officer (what an incredible job title) Bob Mighell says the rider is able to corner the same way they would on a regular bike, but with greater traction, more stability and better braking ability.
“The Mean Lean Machine reflects Arcimoto’s commitment to push the envelope of sustainable mobility,” said Arcimoto Founder and CEO Mark Frohnmayer.
“We started with the amazing three-wheel tilting technology developed by our Tilting Motor Works division and then packed the MLM with new cutting-edge electric vehicle features, including hub motors on all three corners and a pedal generator, in order to deliver a joyful experience unlike any other in the e-bike category.”
The Mean Lean Machine is expected to launch in late 2022 with prices and spec to follow nearer the time.
Arcimoto’s current flagship EV is also a three-wheeler.
The $17,900 Fun Utility Vehicle (FUV) carries two people and boasts a top speed of 75mph and a 102-mile range.
There's also a delivery version called the Deliverator where the rear seat is replaced with a cargo area.
