The origin of electric bike engineering can be credited largely to three men: Adam Wellington, Albert Parcelle and Edward Parkhurst. The original patent for an in-hub motor was filed in 1884 by Wellington. In 1890, the remaining two men made contributions to the field--the first hub motor was built by Parcelle, and Parkhurst invented the first, low-rpm, high-torque electric hub motor.
Among the early designs, both internal combustion and electric engines were popular. But as technology advanced and power storage capabilities improved, lighter batteries were designed and the electric motor began to grow in popularity.
Electric bikes continue to grow in popularity, especially in Asia and Europe. By 1996, there were 370,000 motorized bikes in Shanghai. In Europe, the continuing popularity of these hybrid vehicles is based on eco-concerns, aging citizens, matters of economy and traffic congestion.
