Last March, we've seen the prototypes of Ford's electric
bicycles powered by the iPhone 6 as a control center. There were two prototypes
displayed; MoDe:Me for general consumers and MoDe:Pro for the business owners.
This time, Ford introduces the third iteration of their
smart electric bike, Mode: Flex. Physically the Mode: Flex looks more 'macho'
and more like a traditional bicycle rather than the MoDe:Me.
It is not surprising considering the MoDe:Flex is designed
for the 'bike enthusiasts'. Even so, this electric bike can also be folded to
be stored in the car trunk.
Still the same as its predecessors, the main feature of this
bicycle is the integration of smartphone via MoDe:Link application. However,
this time the application is also compatible with smartwatch.
This means that all the real-time data collected by the
MoDe:Link application can be accessed directly from the wrist. In addition to
be more practical, it is also less dangerous than putting a smartphone in the
handlebar that can distract the cyclist concentration.
The new version of MoDe:Link can also utilize the heart rate
sensor reader that's embedded in smartwatch. The point is the power of electric
motor will be adjusted based on the condition of the cyclist. If his heart is
pounding so fast, then the power of electric motor will be increased so that he
can pedal with a more relaxed, and vice versa.
Another interesting feature offered by Ford MoDe:Flex is the
ability to detect holes in the streets and gives a warning. Unfortunately, not
explained how the bike can detect these holes, whether it utilizes data from
the cloud, a camera, or ultrasonic sensors; no detailed information about this.
Apart from that, certainly when there are holes detected,
then a warning will be given in the form of vibration on the handlebar, or
notification in smartwatch.
So far Ford Mode: Flex is still a prototype. This electric
bike is made for the transition of Ford Smart Mobility program from the
research stage into the implementation phase.