What operating costs/maintenance intervals are expected for the TWIKE 5?
As we mainly use components from the automotive industry for the TWIKE 5, we can expect a longer service life and lower maintenance costs than for the TWIKE 3. However, as the TWIKE 5 is also a completely new development, we will start with the usual maintenance intervals (1,000 km initial service, once a year or every 10,000 km) and gradually extend these.
Is it realistic to drive 45,000 km within 3 years without having to go to the garage for an inspection in between?
30-50,000 km is now realistic and is also the target interval.
Can minor maintenance work (changing tires, replacing bulbs, lubrication service, etc.) be carried out without a workshop?
Changing wheels (e.g. to winter wheels) will be possible in the garage at home. Changing a tire, on the other hand, is similar to changing a car tire. Without the appropriate tools, it will not be possible to mount the tire properly on the rim. The lights will be LED headlights. We assume that these will not fail during the vehicle’s service life; if they do, they will be replaced as a complete unit. Oiling or greasing should not be necessary. The smaller maintenance measures (correcting the windshield water level, maintaining the rubber seals) can easily be carried out by yourself.
Where can major maintenance problems be dealt with?
We also aim to have more demanding service work carried out in generally approved master workshops (car or motorcycle). Various jobs require the qualification of an electrician. However, we assume that this will soon also be standard practice in normal workshops.
Do normal garages have the possibility to drive a three-wheeled vehicle onto a lift?
Yes, the vehicle’s support points for changing tires, for example, can be easily reached and supported by conventional lifts (2-post, stamp or even motorcycle lifts).
Is the front wheel of the TWIKE 5 easy to remove?
Yes, the front wheel is a standard passenger car wheel and is similarly easy to remove. Only the front fairing has to be removed. However, this will also be easy to do (e.g. in the event of tire damage during a tour on the road).
How high will the insurance costs be for the TWIKE 5?
In fact, the insurance costs could be slightly higher (€300-500 fully comprehensive) than for the TWIKE 3 (previously around €250 fully comprehensive). However, they could also remain the same, as the repair concept will be more sophisticated (lower costs for minor damage).
Can the tires be replaced with a simple jack?
Changing tires in the garage at home is just as easy as with other conventional cars.
How high will the vehicle tax be?
Electric vehicles are exempt from vehicle tax in Germany for 10 years (as of 06.02.2019)
