Build Things That Make Life Better
Better Bikes — PEBL 2.0
A full redesign of the PEBL electric velomobile — improved aerodynamics, updated drivetrain, optional solar panels, and a detailed purchasing plan to bring production costs under control.
Better Bikes — PEBL 2.0
ZÆT Role: Design, development & prototyping | Product: PEBL 2.0 fully enclosed electric velomobile | Year: 2022
The Brief
Better Bikes is a Massachusetts-based mobility company behind the PEBL — an enclosed pedal-electric velomobile that combines the agility of an ebike with the weather protection and cargo capacity of a compact car. BetterBike began developing the original PEBL in 2013 and started production in 2016. For the PEBL 2.0, they engaged ZÆT to lead a comprehensive redesign: improving the body, frame, and interior using 3D modelling expertise and ebike development experience to create a more feasible, cost-efficient, and market-ready design.
The PEBL 2.0 features a redesigned aerodynamic fiberglass composite body, an updated etrike frame with fully enclosed safety cage, an upgraded ebike drive system, and optional integrated solar panels. ZÆT built the full production cost model and sourcing plan to bring the bill of materials under control.
The Result
ZÆT delivered the complete PEBL 2.0 redesign in CAD, a purchasing plan with production cost analysis, and a component sourcing strategy covering the drivetrain, battery, body, and structural elements — giving BetterBike a clear path from redesign to production.
How ZÆT Built This
Define Direction
Product redesign brief: improve body, frame, and interior from PEBL 1.0 · Use-case mapping: urban last-mile, campus mobility, car replacement · Solar panel integration feasibility and positioning · Target market: eco-conscious commuters, older adults, campus fleets
Build the Foundation
3D modelling of improved aerodynamic fiberglass composite body · Etrike frame redesign with full enclosed safety cage · Ebike drive system specification: mid-drive motor and lithium battery · Optional solar panel integration and regenerative system design · Purchasing plan and full production cost analysis
Execute and Launch
Component sourcing for full production BOM · Prototype coordination and manufacturing partner communication · Production cost validation and pricing strategy · Supplier qualification for fiberglass, battery, and drivetrain components · Market and investor materials for PEBL 2.0 launch
The Result
