Though 2009 Copenhagen 15 conference has been fraught with controversy, not all news and developments out this conference has been bad. In a story that was overlooked by pretty much everyone, MIT unveiled a radical new concept that may change the future of urban commuting as we know it.

 

Known as the "Copenhagen Wheel", the latest project out of MIT's SENSEable City lab features technologies that previously were exclusive to automobiles. On the surface, the Copenhagen Wheel merely looks like a large red bike hub. On the inside, however, there is a regenerative braking system, which means a slight tug on the lever and you are charging the batteries. See a tough hill coming up on the horizon? No problem, the Copenhagen Wheel will automatically provide with you a boost to power you not only over the hill but through the woods as well.

 

Speaking of that, where are the batteries? Actually, they too are stored inside the red hub. Not only does this make the bike somewhat more aerodynamic, it also cuts down on visual clutter and dangling cables. 

 

Since this was concept was invented by the geeks at MIT, you can also guess that the Copenhagen Wheel does a bit more that transfer electrons back and forth. It also contains multiple sensors and a Bluetooth antenna that will relay your bikes speed, direction, travelled, even the location of nearby friends straight to your handlebar mounted iPhone. 

 

All of this data can be stored on your iPhone and shared with friends via facebook. The Copenhagen Wheel project also features a program called "Green Miles", which works similarly to frequent flyer miles.

 

Another cool feature is the Copenhagen Wheel's smart lock. When the wheel senses your iPhone is away from the bike it begins to generate the maximum amount of torque possible. If the bike is stolen, it will alert you via text message and smart lock will make it very difficult for the thief to pedal your bike away (though I'm sure picking it up walking away with it is still an option).

 

No word on pricing or availability, but the Copenhagen Wheel can be retrofitted to any bike. 

 

 

Source: MIT