The OZOa stands out with its unique 'Z' shape, reminiscent of a lightning strike. This innovative design is not just about aesthetics; it also incorporates all the bicycle's features in one continuous line. The frame connects the steering, front wheel, rear motorized wheel, seat, and pedals, and even includes a rear suspension within its natural shape. All parts, including the frame, are made of aluminum to reduce weight, while the lithium-ion battery is an integral part of the frame and can be removed for separate recharging.
Creating the OZOa was not without its challenges. The small radii in the 'Z' shaped corners made bending material impossible. To overcome this, the designers divided the frame into sections and combined them into one continuous line. They used extruded aluminum profiles to cover the length and width of the bicycle. The sections were then welded together, and plastic covers were added where necessary. The bicycle also features a detachable waterproof lithium-ion battery, an LCD screen displaying data such as electric system, speed, and battery condition, a brushless hub motor, and a controller.
Despite its unique shape, the OZOa is extremely comfortable to use. The seat is adjustable to different heights, and the rear suspension handles road and uneven surfaces effectively. The detachable battery allows users to lock the bicycle outside while charging the battery at home or replacing it with a new one.
The OZOa project began in August 2018 and was released in June 2020. The design was created in Israel, while the developments, prototypes, and production took place in Ningbo, China, making it a multicultural joint venture. The designers conducted extensive research, observing hundreds of bicycles and electric bicycles for their ergonomics, construction, and function. They sought to create a clean and identifiable frame shape that would contain electric parts and bear the weight of riders. Their fourth attempt resulted in the 'Z' shape, a design that had been attempted before but never successfully brought past the concept stage.
The OZOa has been recognized for its innovative design, winning the Silver A' Vehicle, Mobility and Transportation Design Award in 2020. This award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. With its distinctive 'Z' shape, the OZOa electric bike is a testament to the power of design and technology to revolutionize urban mobility.
Project Designers: Nimrod Riccardo Sapir
Image Credits: Image #1: Nimrod Sapir, left side view, 2019
Image #2: Nimrod Sapir, top view, 2019
Image #3: Nimrod Sapir, isometric front view, 2019
Image #4: Nimrod Sapir, isometric rear view, 2019
Image #5: Nimrod Sapir, isometric right side view, 2019
Project Team Members: Designer: Riccardo Nimrod Sapir
Creative Director: Riccardo Nimrod Sapir
Co-Designer and Engineer: Wei Zhang
Lingyun Lu
Weiwei Cao
Jie Wang
Yuanlin Wang
Luming Zhang
CEO: Lingyun Lu
Project Name: Ozoa
Project Client: Nimrod Riccardo Sapir