The Streek, a tall-framed, double-decker cargo e-trike from Japan, is preparing to make its way to the U.S. market. Known for its innovative design, this e-trike, developed by Yokohama-based Envision Incorporated, offers a unique way to transport cargo, particularly in crowded urban environments. While already available in Japan, the U.S. version of the Streek is being refined in collaboration with Portland-based ebike company Vvolt, bringing with it several upgrades suited to American preferences and regulations.
A unique design with practical benefits
First unveiled as a prototype in 2022, the original Streek caught attention with its unusual loop-shaped frame, allowing cargo to be stored on two levels. This vertical design makes the e-trike resemble an open-sided double-decker bus, but the form serves a practical purpose. By stacking cargo vertically rather than horizontally, the trike can carry more goods without taking up more space on the road. This is a crucial feature for use in high-traffic city centers, where road and parking space are often limited.
The Streek’s design caters to the needs of urban dwellers, delivery services, and anyone navigating congested environments. Its ability to transport a significant amount of cargo without increasing its footprint offers a solution to the common challenge of maneuvering larger vehicles in cities.
U.S. version offers performance upgrades
While the original Streek has been available to buyers in Japan, Envision and Vvolt are now adapting the trike for the U.S. market. Although the core design remains largely the same—featuring an aluminum frame, independently leaf-spring-suspended tilting front wheels, a mid-drive motor, an internal-geared rear hub transmission, and hydraulic disc brakes—there are key differences that reflect U.S. regulations and preferences.
One of the most notable upgrades for the U.S. version is its increased top motor-assisted speed. While the Japanese model is equipped with a Shimano Steps motor that delivers a top assisted speed of 15 mph (24 km/h), the U.S. model will feature an Ananda Drive mid-drive motor. This more powerful motor will offer 100 nm (74 lb-ft) of torque and allow the e-trike to reach a top speed of 28 mph (45 km/h), aligning with U.S. regulations that permit higher speeds for e-bikes and e-trikes. This speed boost makes the U.S. Streek more competitive for longer trips and higher-traffic roads.
A focus on rider comfort and cargo versatility
Another significant change in the U.S. model involves rider accommodation. The original version of the Streek was designed with a specific rider height range in mind, but the U.S. model is being modified to suit taller riders, without sacrificing usability for those on the shorter side. The new version will support riders as short as 5 feet 2 inches (157.5 cm) while also being comfortable for taller individuals.
Envision and Vvolt are also optimizing the U.S. Streek’s frame for a belt-drive drivetrain, which will be paired with a wider-range hub motor. This upgrade is aimed at enhancing the trike’s efficiency and durability, particularly in the varied terrains that U.S. riders might encounter.
Moreover, new cargo configurations are in development, allowing users to further customize how they transport goods. These changes are being tailored to the needs of American users but may also be introduced to the Japanese model later on.
Anticipating the U.S. launch
The U.S. version of the Streek is still in development, with some technical specifications—such as battery range and weight—yet to be announced. However, it is known that the trike will be able to carry up to 130 lbs (59 kg) of cargo, making it a practical solution for urban transport and delivery tasks.
Production of the U.S. model is expected to begin next year, with Vvolt overseeing manufacturing through one of its production partners rather than at the original Streek factory in Japan. Vvolt is planning a Kickstarter campaign to fund the production of the U.S. model, which is expected to launch in the spring of 2025. Pricing and further technical details will be revealed at that time, and prospective buyers or backers can sign up for updates via Vvolt’s website.
Source: Vvolt
