Short description
Garmin has launched a car detection radar for e-bikes. The Varia eRTL61 warns drivers of vehicles approaching from behind and can be mounted on the seat post or rear post like a taillight. The system sends pulses that echo off any vehicles up to 137m behind the bike, with the module analyzing them to determine the distance and speed of each vehicle. Users receive alerts on their Garmin bike computer, smartwatch, or through the Varia app on a smartphone. The device can be purchased for $300 in the Garmin online store, with a battery-powered version for non-electric bikes available.
Garmin released a radar on an electric bicycle to detect cars
Garmin has developed the Varia eRTL61 car detection radar that can be mounted on e-bikes. The system will warn drivers about vehicles approaching from behind.
The unit mounts to the seat post or rear post like a regular taillight. It is connected to the electrical system of the e-bike, which provides charging of the battery.
When the rider pedals, the eRTL615 sends pulses that echo off any cars up to 137m behind the bike. The module receives these echoes and analyzes them to determine how far away each vehicle is and how fast it is approaching.
The user receives visual and audible alerts on their Garmin smartwatch, Edge bike computer, or through the Varia app for iOS and Android on a paired smartphone. He can see how many cars are behind him and at what distance.
The rear light of the device provides four different modes and has a maximum power of 65 lumens. As drivers approach, it starts blinking faster.
The claimed weight of the entire device is 51g, it communicates via wireless ANT+ or Bluetooth Low Energy protocols and is IPX7 waterproof (withstands immersion in water to a depth of 1m for up to 30 minutes).
The Varia eRTL615 can be purchased in the Garmin online store for $300. For non-electric bike riders, there is a battery-powered version of the device.
Earlier, Acer introduced a smart e-bike called ebii and a companion mobile app, ebiiGO, which uses AI to predict the ride route, track the battery level, and lock and unlock the bike when parked. It will cost €1,999 in the European market, and deliveries to EU countries will begin in September of this year.
