Other models exist but are for now only in the “prototype phase,” said Mr Forté. The French Post Office has reportedly expressed an interest in ordering a fleet.
Production will begin with 100 bikes in 2016, which will be ramped up to 1,000 by 2017. At this level of output, the cost of a bike will be around €2,300 £1,700) - no more expensive than existing top-bracket electric bikes.
Alpha will be officially unveiled to the public during this year’s Intelligent Transport Systems congress in Bordeaux.