Ebiketips has featured EAV four-wheeled e-cargo bikes several times over recent years. Now a similar looking (but under the skin quite different) machine from Estonia is looking to give them a run for their money. VOK four-wheeled e-cargo bikes are available to buy internationally and are also available to rent in London.
VOK have actually been around for a while, just under the radar whilst EAV have been making all the headlines. However, their four wheeled, electric cargo delivery vehicle - legally speaking an e-bike (so it can go in bike lanes and the rider does not need a driving licence) - boasts some interesting technology.
Most notably, there is no direct chain drive between the pedals and the wheels. This is a so-called serial hybrid drivetrain whereby pedal power is converted into electrical energy via a small generator along with battery power, avoiding the need for a direct chain or belt drive. This sounds a neat idea but in the past they have proved rather inefficient.
There are two models of VOK, the Standard and the XL, the former having 420 litres of cargo space and a 150kg payload and the latter 2,000 litres cargo space and a 200kg payload. There are powerful hydraulic disc brakes with ABS, indicators and a windscreen wiper. Respective purchase prices are €8,990 and €13,490. VOK say rental prices are on application.
VOK already have a commercial track record; they have been piloted by Estonian postal service Omniva and Stuart delivery in London is offering its couriers Vok’s electric cargo bikes through an on-demand short-term rental model. French food delivery company Ziticity have also been using VOK vehicles. In early 2021 VOK received €800,000 in pre-seed funding from various investors.
