N+ partnered with Volkswagen to launch a premium electric bicycle branded as the world’s safest e-bike, recently tested in Berlin by a technology journalist. The bike integrates multiple safety technologies including smart glasses with a heads-up display, a Bluetooth-enabled helmet with front and rear lights, and a rear-facing camera. Despite its high price tag of several thousand dollars, the ride remains enjoyable even when the battery is depleted, thanks to its lightweight design and responsive handling.
The collaboration between N+ and Volkswagen aims to redefine urban cycling safety by combining automotive-grade technology with e-bike functionality. The smart glasses project navigation and speed data directly into the rider’s field of vision, reducing the need to look away from the road. The helmet’s integrated lighting system activates automatically in low-light conditions, while the rear camera provides real-time video feed to help monitor traffic behind the rider. These features work in tandem to enhance situational awareness and reduce accident risks.
Even when the battery is fully drained, the e-bike retains core functionality due to its efficient mechanical design and low rolling resistance. The journalist noted that pedaling felt smooth and natural, comparable to a high-end traditional bicycle. This ensures riders are not stranded if the electronic systems fail, maintaining usability as a fallback. The safety components like the helmet lights and camera rely on separate rechargeable units, extending their operation beyond the main battery life.
Urban cyclists often face risks from poor visibility and delayed reaction times, which this system directly addresses through proactive alerts and enhanced perception. The heads-up display minimizes distractions by keeping critical information in the rider’s line of sight. Meanwhile, the rear-facing camera eliminates blind spots, a common cause of collisions in city traffic. Volkswagen’s involvement brings credibility and resources typically reserved for automotive safety innovation to the cycling space.
How much does the N+ Volkswagen e Bike cost? The e-bike is priced at several thousand dollars, reflecting its advanced safety technology and premium build quality, though exact figures were not disclosed in the test ride summary.
Can the smart glasses be used with prescription lenses? Yes, the smart glasses are designed to accommodate prescription inserts, allowing riders who require vision correction to use the heads-up display feature without compromise.
Is the rear-facing camera feed accessible in real time? The camera transmits a live video feed to a handlebar-mounted display or connected device, enabling riders to monitor traffic behind them without turning their heads.