Make any bicycle electric with GreenWheel

Scientists at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are testing a new electric wheel hub that can be attached to almost any bicycle.

The GreenWheel is a self-contained electric wheel that turns a standard bike into a fully functional electric bicycle, complete with motor and battery.

All motor parts other than the throttle are encased in the wheel.

According to MIT researchers, the GreenWheel gives up to 25 miles of pedal free riding, or 50 miles of assisted riding.

The battery can be charged by pedaling, or by plugging the wheel in to standard wall socket for 10-15 minutes.

The GreenWheel has a lifespan of 40,000 miles, equivalent to 8 years with 20 miles cycling on each business day.

Whilst electric bikes are becoming popular, they are still prohibitively expensive for many potential cyclists.

If the GreenWheel proves affordable, electric bicycles would be in the purchasing reach of many more people, making cycling an increasingly attractive transport option in our age of rising oil prices and eco-consciousness.