Alpha Neo : Pragma has unveiled a new bicycle
Revealed on social networks at the beginning of July, Pragma Industries’ new bicycle had not yet been mentioned by the media and specialised websites. However, Hydrogen Today has gathered the main information from the French manufacturer. Beyond the vintage look, which is rather nice, this bike is clearly more efficient. Pragma has announced a 50% increase in storage tank capacity (3 litres at 300 bar), providing a greater autonomy. The Alpha Neo will be able to travel 150 km in sport mode and up to 200 km at normal speed.
In this respect, it should be noted that the fuel cell will be more powerful, from 200 W to 480 W (+100%) with 24 cells. Moreover, the firm in Biarritz has decided to remove the buffer battery which will be replaced by supercapacitors. The Alpha Neo will therefore be a “0 lithium” bike.
A 250 W wheel-motor provides the transmission, with 5 speeds. The Neo also features a torque sensor and hydraulic disc brakes for more safety, in combination with its wide tyres. The whole thing is completed by automatic LED lights, both front and rear.
Among the technical advances, the presence of a removable energy pack is to be highlighted. It can be removed from the (aluminium) frame for a more efficient after-sales service. Pragma has also incorporated a screen that offers maximum contrast and brightness, even in direct sunlight. Its particularity is that it is translective*. In addition, the on/off button is backlit and the instrument cluster also comes along with a hydrogen access panel in its lower part.
A video explains it all on Youtube.
The Alpha Neo is also a connected bike, allowing a number of maintenance operations to be carried out from afar and to manage supplies using predictive models. But above all, the price is down by about 40%! It has dropped from €7,500 (about $8800) to €4,690 (about $5500). Solely 500 bikes will be produced in 2022, available for pre-order now from €4690 (about $5500).
*The screen combines two technologies: transmissive through internal lighting located behind the screen panel and reflective by capturing ambient light located in front of the panel.
Article written by Laurent Meillaud and translated by Logan King.
