Berlin-based micromobility specialist Lemmo presents the Zero, a new type of foldable e-bike. Developed in cooperation with the Chinese electric car manufacturer NIO, the model is set to set new standards in the foldable e-bike segment with its combination of lightweight construction, compact dimensions and smart technology. Once again, a bike manufacturer is teaming up with a car manufacturer when it comes to urban mobility.
At the heart of the "folding bike" Lemmo Zero is a frame made of T700 and T800 carbon fibres from the renowned Japanese manufacturer Toray. Thanks to the use of this high-tech material, the bike weighs just 10.5 kilograms without the electric drive system and 12.5 kilograms with it, according to the manufacturer.
This makes the Zero one of the lightest folding e-bikes on the market. The carbon frame should not only ensure low weight, but also high rigidity and durability. Another special feature is that the bike is a folding bike, although the term sounds almost too antiquated for this product.
The developers have therefore paid particular attention to the folding mechanism. An innovative three-folding system enables the bike to be folded up particularly small. When folded, the Lemmo Zero is said to be 40 per cent more compact than conventional 20-inch folding bikes and even 20 per cent smaller than typical 16-inch models with a three-folding mechanism.
Thanks to these compact dimensions, the bike fits easily into the boot of various NIO models or even into a standard 28-inch suitcase. The folding process itself is possible in just 30 seconds thanks to magnetic locks and quick-release clamps, while unfolding takes just 15 seconds.
A special feature of the Lemmo Zero - as with the Lemmo model we tested - is its dual-mode drive system. The Berliners' bikes ride like non-motorised bikes without motor assistance, as the electric motor can be decoupled with a small twist grip.
At the centre of this is the so-called E+ technology, the heart of which is the removable "Smartpac Air" unit. This combines the battery, control electronics and IoT modules, which can simply be removed to save weight - the Lemmo we tested with a significantly larger battery weighed around 3 kilos.
According to the Lemmo Zero, the battery has a capacity of 160 watt hours and a theoretical range of 30 to 40 kilometres. Thanks to the 65 watt quick-charging function, it is also quickly ready for use again. The Smartpac on the new Lemmo e-bike can also be used as a power bank for smartphones or laptops.
Propulsion in e-mode is provided by a compact hub motor with 400 watts of peak power and 30 Newton metres of torque - unusually at the front, at least judging by the pictures. Despite the power, the drive unit weighs just 0.9 kilograms. A special freewheel design is intended to ensure that the motor generates virtually no resistance when pedalling alone. A high-precision torque sensor detects your own pedalling force and the system influences the motor power differently depending on pedal power and revolutions, which should provide natural support.
The Lemmo Zero is not just an e-bike, but also a networked mobility device. Equipped with GPS, Bluetooth and 4G modules as well as over-the-air update capability, the bike remains connected to the user at all times. Riding data such as cadence, power and speed can be tracked and analysed in real time via the associated Lemmo app. These functions can provide useful insights for both commuters and ambitious cyclists.
When it comes to equipment, Lemmo relies on tried and tested brand components. A 5-speed gear system from Shimano ensures the right gear ratio for different terrain. Hydraulic disc brakes on the front and rear wheels (although mechanical brakes can be seen on the bike in the video) guarantee reliable deceleration in all weather conditions. An ergonomically shaped saddle with reinforced padding is designed to ensure comfort even on longer rides. The geometry of the carbon frame is designed so that riders of different heights can find an optimum riding position.
The Lemmo Zero is available to buy from the manufacturer on the website. And because the folding e-bike has only just been presented, there are still discounts for the first buyers. Until 19 July, there is still a 600 euro discount on the announced price of 2390 euros. Discounts will continue in stages until 19 September.

Editor