VW "Bik.e" Shows Industry is Out of Touch
The auto industry's battle to sell cash sucking products continues to rage on despite recalls, government injections and heated committee hearings.
On the heels of the mess the industry is in, automakers keep pumping out new models and pushing hard for consumers to sign on the dotted line.
The latest model by Volkswagon is an uber efficient electric vehicle with two wheels.
Yes, you read that right, two wheels.
It's a bike.
No, really, it's a bike.
Launched at the Auto China 2010 Show, the bike has been dubbed the "Bik.e".
However the Bik.e doesn't have any pedals and according to reports, will only give the rider about an hour of electricity-based riding.
What happens when the juice runs out? The Bik.e then becomes an awkward scooter of sorts that puts the rider back in the Fred Flintsone days. However, in this case, there will be no yabba dabba do, but more like, "where can I plug this bad boy in?"
I think that the Bik.e is a clear indication that the auto industry is out of touch with consumer needs. Is this concept cool? Absolutely. It is practical? No. The only use I see is if the car breaks down and you need transportation to the nearest gas station to fill up.
Check out this video and tell me that watching one of the VW execs buzz around on the Bik.e doesn't remind you of Tom Hanks doing the same thing as Forrest Gump.
Stupid is as stupid does.
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