These enabled us to validate the frame, chassis components, and also the steering geometry.
An earlier design iteration was used for the steering, which was already largely convincing. The production version will only receive a final refinement. The pre-production steering will no longer be used in the bolted frame of the FET, but only in the pre-production frame of the prototype, which is currently undergoing its final development cycle.
The lumbar support area – referring to the natural curvature of the spine in the cervical and lumbar regions – of the new seat geometry proved to be comfortable and sufficiently well-defined during the drives. Overall, however, the current seats provided too little lateral support during cornering. Before commissioning the molds for series production, the seat shell geometry will receive a more pronounced side bolster with dedicated upholstery surfaces.
When reviewing the CAD data, we previously suspected insufficient space for arm movement during steering. However, practical experience from the test drives shows that the initial concern was unfounded and the elbows have enough room.
Installing software updates is now seamless despite initial hurdles, and in the coming weeks, this will allow us to gradually install and test the extensive features of the later production vehicle. The next major goal is the construction of production frames and their gradual completion into pre-production prototypes.
Do you want the TWIKE 5 to go into production as soon as possible? Learn how you can make a contribution.
