Mahindra GenZe, a leader in no-hassle, all-electric two-wheel transportation alternatives, announced last week at CES the industry’s first cloud-based connected scooter and mobile rider application designed to make getting around American cities and campuses faster, easier, safer and much more fun. The GenZe Cruise-Connect System provides the ability to monitor data through a cloud-based system and the ability to govern settings from a mobile phone.
Available in just a few months, the system is part of the connected GenZe 2.0, a breakthrough two-wheel vehicle designed from the ground up for urban and campus commuters. GenZe was exhibiting the GenZe 2.0 and its full line of electric bikes at its CES booth at the Sands Hotel Eureka conference facility. We got a chance to check the unit out and speak with the team behind the project.
“Increasing traffic congestion — along with energy, pollution, parking, maintenance and other hassles — are demanding new smart two-wheel solutions for city and campus life,” said Vish Palekar, CEO of Silicon Valley-based Mahindra GenZe. “GenZe is refining urban mobility by delivering a whole new hassle-free, eco-friendly commuter experience. With the launch of the GenZe Cruise-Connect System, GenZe is now the smartest two-wheel vehicle on the road.”
GenZe Cruise-Connect monitors and reports on more than 100 different information points, delivering them through a cloud-based system to the rider’s smartphone. The system also connects to experts at Mahindra GenZe and, where relevant, fleet operators to create a seamless solution for vehicle diagnostics, tracking, security and safety, including:
- Remote diagnostics and prognostics
- Vehicle usage patterns and driving summaries
- Route mapping
- Stolen vehicle tracking
- Battery life and charge status
The GenZe 2.0 also has a removable lithium-ion battery that can be recharged at any standard electrical outlet, giving riders optimal freedom and ease of use. Its smart, utilitarian design offers ample rear storage space so people can get where they want and take all of their stuff with them. It allows for device recharging in a compartment under the drivers seat. The connected GenZe platform redefines mobility for a new generation of commuters.
All this really adds up to making the GenZe a pretty awesome little ride, especially for the total cost being under $3,000. If you live in a big city, or are looking for a second vehicle to get around town, the GenZe may be the answer you’ve been looking for. GAMbIT will be demoing the unit in the near future and will bring you a full review. For those of you that want more details on the unit, check out the following question posed to the team at GenZe.
Technical
How fast will it go?
GenZe can travel up to 30 mph. This means riders do not need a motorcycle endorsement in most states to ride a GenZe. They will need a valid driver’s license.
How far will it go on a single charge?
The GenZe will travel a minimum of 30 miles on a full charge.
Is there a product warranty?
GenZe will offer a competitive warranty on all of its models because top quality components (batteries, etc.) are used in its manufacturing. Additional details will be released closer to the consumer product launch in 2015.
Is the GenZe heavy?
No. The GenZe weighs less than 210 pounds. This is
significantly lighter than most motorized two wheelers. Due to its low center of gravity and removable battery, it feels even lighter.
Where do I go to get my GenZe charged?
GenZe has a rechargeable battery pack the size of a standard briefcase. To recharge, the rider can take the battery out and plug it in anywhere you would a normal laptop or appliance. The vehicle can also be recharged without taking out the
battery by plugging the battery’s removable cord into a wall outlet in the garage.
Do I need a motorcycle endorsement to ride a GenZe?
The GenZe can be legally driven in most states by anyone with a valid driver’s license. There are exceptions to that so we recommend checking with your DMV first.
About GenZe
What is the GenZe?
The first product Mahindra GenZe is introducing is the GenZe 2.0, an electric two-wheeler, designed for students and urban commuters. Click here for more.
Why is Mahindra GenZe so different from other modes of transportation?
The GenZe is the first urban vehicle that can accommodate the rider’s desire to go when and where they want, while bringing with them anything their busy life requires. Bikes are wonderful for exercise, but lack storage capacity. Public transportation is great, but commuters have no control over the bus/subway schedules. In contrast, a GenZe enables its rider to easily pick up dry cleaning and hit the grocery store—and bring it all back home in one trip.
Why is the GenZe a “no-hassle” product?
The GenZe is the ultimate fun, hassle-free urban transportation solution. It glides around traffic, and you can park it just about anywhere. It carries a lot of your stuff (groceries, books, you name it) and lets you recharge in the comfort of your home, using its innovative SmartPackTM. Its electric drive train means you never need to pay for gasoline or tune-ups, fill-ups and oil changes.
How is the GenZe fun?
Riding the GenZe is a blast: it’s swift to start and it glides through the street quietly so you can hear the sounds around you or greet your friends. There’s also the joy of outsmarting the car culture of gas, maintenance and parking.
When can I test ride or buy a GenZe?
The GenZe can be pre-ordered at store.genze.com, and test rides are available at various events throughout California (check out genze.com/locate-us/ for more info).
How is GenZe different from a scooter?
The GenZe is to scooters what smart phones are to cell phones. It‘s everything commuters need in a vehicle with zero hassle:
1. Expanded carrying capacity: No other vehicle accommodates the rider’s lifestyle and cargo like the GenZe. It’s like a “pick-up” for a single rider.
2. Instead of a traditional speedometer, the GenZe comes with a 7” touchscreen monitor which gives the rider information about how much battery charge and projected travel range is available.
3. Dual Position Slant SeatTM gives riders the ability to easily and safely see over traffic, or just sit down and cruise. The Slant SeatTM flips up to support the rider in a semi-standing position, and then clicks back down when they want a more relaxed ride.
4. Improved tires: Scooters typically have smaller front and rear tires. The GenZe’s 16-inch front tire provides additional stability at slow speeds and over thresholds (potholes/curbs).
Where are GenZe manufactured?
They are being designed, engineered and assembled in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Where does the name “GenZe” come from? What does it stand for?
GenZe is a double entendre—It refers to both future generations, and to those that embrace zero emission vehicles.
Who is the GenZe for?
GenZe was designed to appeal to urban commuters who are looking for a hassle-free way to commute, getting from Point A to Point B easily. This includes young professionals, urban commuters and university students, among others.
About GenZe E-Bikes
What is an e-bike? How different is it from a conventional bicycle or pedelec?
An e-bike is an electric bicycle that is powered by a small, battery powered electric motor as well as with pedals. The difference between pedelec and e-bike is:
-Pedelec uses pedals and the hub motor input is active only during pedaling. Pedelecs are very popular in Europe.
– e-bike uses the throttle on the right hand side to propel the bike. Motor input is activated by turning a handlebar throttle. Pedaling is not required to operate the bike. However, an e-bike can be used by pedaling only as well.
– GenZe e-bike can be used as a pedelec and as an e-bike with its twist throttle action, based on rider preference.
– Both an e-bike and a pedelec provide a useful transport option for both commuting and leisure use. In the US, e-bikes tend to be more popular due to longer distance commuting. This is why we are first introducing this option.
What differentiates our e-bike from the competition?
Just like the GenZe 2.0, the GenZe e-bike includes a removable battery pack that is integrated into the e-bike frame. In contrast, many competitive products use external battery packs, stored, attached to the bike rack and are not integrated to the bike.
Just like GenZe 2.0, the GenZe e-bike contains high quality Lithium Ion batteries. Valves, brakes and other components are manufactured from the highest quality materials.
GenZe e-bike batteries are removable but can also be charged while on the bike.
How do I know if I need a GenZe 2.0 or a GenZe e-bike?
The GenZe 2.0 is a part of a broader set of mobility solutions to the hassles presented by urban congestion. For example, it is a great alternative to having to drive and park a car in a city. There are times when riding a GenZe from point A to point B is much more efficient than driving or taking public transport.
The GenZe e-bike is ideal for (1) Customers looking for a faster replacement vs a regular bike; (2) People uncomfortable on motorized two-wheelers; and (4) For those who long for a more active lifestyle and are looking to get in shape but are unable to ride a regular bike.
What is our e-bike offering?
The GenZe e-bike comes in a e102 Recreational Model which offers a step through construct which anyone of all ages can comfortably ride.
The e101 Sport Model is built for those who prefer a higher bar. The GenZe Sport e-bike will be available in 16”, 18” and 20” frames and the GenZe Rec e-bike will be available in 16” and 18” frames.
Selecting the right model for you depends on which construct you are most comfortable with. We recommend trying both to see which you prefer.
How do I get a GenZe e-bike serviced?
You can bring the e-bike into any GenZe service centers or authorized GenZe retailers for immediate servicing — and you can always call 1-855-GO-GENZE to find your nearest location.
Is there a digital manual available for the e-bike?
Yes, we have made the GenZe E-Bike Manual available for all to download.
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