Predator HPV by Eugen Ackermann

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3d printed 1/4 scale model of Eugen Ackermann’s Predator HPV

 
Last summer, for his Bachelor thesis of Industrial Design at Pforzheim University in Germany, Eugen Ackermann chose to design an “Alternative Mobility” solution. His Predator design is a recumbent bike, a category that he believes offers users many advantages but still is not socially accepted even though the basic design goes back to the early days of human powered transportation. To change that perception, Ackermann believes that recumbents should not be thought of as versions of ordinary bikes. As he states on one of his presentation boards, “the recumbent bike needs its own identity!”

Ackermann explains further how his design is different.

“Representing a new generation of recumbents, the Predator puts this type of movement in a new spotlight. The relaxed, lying posture combined with the tilting mechanism which makes it possible to lean into the curves, enable a special driving experience. Furthermore the tilting mechanism saves the vehicle from falling over in sharp curves. The Predator is three-wheeled and steered by the two sprung front wheels, while the rear one is driven by the driver’s muscle power supported by an electric engine. Visually, the Predator differs significantly from conventional recumbents. The wheelbase was changed in order to match the vehicles proportions and the two shell-like elements with their clear and dynamic lines give the Predator the expression of athleticism and speed, as well as a distinctive look. The shells and the visible technical elements form a strong contrast uniting technique and design.”

You can see the rest of Ackermann’s presentation boards below. It’s an interesting design… sort of a cross between an open recumbent tilting trike and a full fairing velomobile. Which reminds me… I am due for that third post in the velomobile series soon. The list of designs to include just keeps growing the longer I wait.
 
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Comments

10 responses to “Predator HPV by Eugen Ackermann”

  1. tom johnson Avatar
    tom johnson

    cool-looking thing.

    though I reckon the open front wouldn’t be great for aerodynamics

  2. Grego Avatar
    Grego

    Is it just me or is this vehicle way too short to allow for pedaling? It looks like there’s about 2 feet between the seat and the crank. My legs are slightly longer than that…

  3. Milessio Avatar
    Milessio

    I assume it uses Ackermann steering geometry 🙂

    Recumbents/hpvs need to be cheaper to become more popular – they just cost so much & I don’t think this helps with that.

  4. Floatility Urban Avatar
    Floatility Urban

    some great comments on the preferences and desires of future personal transit – aerodynamics, adjustability and price. Come on Audi (http://audi-urban-future-initiative.com), take it up and make it happen…

  5. romu70 Avatar
    romu70

    Visually nice, but it has some failures, especially there is no mudguard on the wheels and as the cockpit is open (which is great), I don’t want to ride with under the rain or just on a wet road.

    But again, it’s nice.

  6. Nir Avatar

    Great looking overall, didnt catch the steering yet.
    but very cool design.

    you should look at this project i found on the net.
    chain free bicycle
    http://www.headstart.co.il/project.aspx?id=13420&lan=en-US

  7. brian rees Avatar

    I was wondering if you have any access to some power requirements for the hpv bikes. I’m guessing that at 150 watts average you could average 12 mph on a flat smooth road. It is like 200 watts to 20 mph for a tt bike. I’m thinking with the wind savings it may be close to a trade off.

  8. dimitri de vecchi Avatar
    dimitri de vecchi

    posso avere maggiori informazioni in merito al modello PREDATOR HPV AKERMANN?
    PREZZO E RIVENDITORI
    GRAZIE
    DIMITRI

    Translated:
    Can I get more information about the model PREDATOR HPV Akermann?
    PRICE AND DEALERS
    THANK YOU
    DIMITRI

  9. Deborah Van Ham Avatar
    Deborah Van Ham

    This is really simular to a gear driven, motor assisted, tilt steering wheelchair that I want to create, however, I am not an engineer. I am looking for someone to help me make it a reality.

  10. Eugen Avatar
    Eugen

    Hi Deborah, how do you want to create your wheelchair?

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