Solar powered electric bike-cars ELF and PEBL might just be weird enough to work
The biggest difference between the ELF and the PEBL, is the PEBL has rear suspension, and the ELF has front suspension. The PEBL also has inner fenders on the front wheels, and comes with a removable floor panel. The PEBL also comes with roll up doors, so it is fully enclosed, and can be used in the cold. It comes standard with a rear seat, as well. The front seat is adjustable. The PEBL has reverse, while the ELF you use your feet on the ground.
The PEBL has optional windshield wiper, an option heater, and optional interior lights. The standard battery is 48v 16Ah, and provides an estimated 25 mile range. There are options for a 32Ah, 48Ah, and 64Ah batteries. The solar panel is 110w (not 100w as mentioned in the article) and it is an option. For places that have a lot of trees, or not much sun, you would be better off to opt for a bigger battery.
I rode a friend's ELF, and I have tried a PEBL. The ELF is slightly wider, and taller, and it feels wide open - you can see out through the front wheels. The ELF is more expensive, and is made with vacuum formed plastic side panels. The PEBL is a hemp and fiberglass shell, that uses a soy and pine based resin.
ELF vs PEBL
Length: 106" vs 99"
Width: 48.25" vs 45"
Height: 61" vs 58"
The PEBL starts at just under $8,000, while the ELF is $900 more.
The ELF comes standard with the 100w solar panel. The 110w solar panel is a $550 option on the PEBL.
The standard ELF comes in white, with 6 other colors optional. The PEBL comes standard in a choice of 6 colors, with almost any custom color optional for $200.
The ELF comes standard with a 3 speed hub, while the PEBL has an 8 speed hub.
The ELF has 3 disk brakes, and the PEBL has 90mm front drum brakes, and a rear disk.
The ELF weighs 160-200 pounds (depending on the model and options) and the PEBL weighs 195 pounds with the standard battery.
I am buying a red PEBL, with a 64Ah battery, 3" wide wheels, wiper, interior lights, 12v power outlet (in addition to the standard USB). I have now paid for my PEBL (finally), and it should be available in early July, for pickup!